ARVIRAGVS AND PHILICIA. As it was acted at the Private House in blackfriars by his Majesties Servants. The first and second Part.  
 printer's device of John Norton junior, featuring a fleur-de-lis on a dotted background (McKerrow 267) 
IN DOMINO CONFIDO.   
LONDON, Printed by JOHN NORTON, for John Crooke, and Richard Sergier, and are to be sold at the Grey-hound in S. Pauls Church yard. 1639.   

The Prologue.  
we promised you a new Play by our bill,  
And some dares promise us since ere 'tis ill,  
Hard fate, prejudicated opinion thus,  
Make you less pleased, and needs must ruin us:  
Nor can our Poets have a heart to writ,  
When their most weighty works you will find light,  
But this does with the ages Genius fit,  
Where still the lookers on claims all the wit,  
The silly writers justly styled, whose brains  
For you distilled, scorn is their greatest gains:  
These tho they breath your air, enjoys your Sun.  
Hath equal parts, comparisons must shun  
With you their judges; you have paid, are free,  
And like some judges still Condemners be;  
Or else ye grieve, for to that end you came,  
Ill natures glory in a Poets shane.  
This to the bold, and ignorant, but where?  
Here's none, none that believes he's such Ile swear  
Since all then are discreet, or such would seem,  
Nought but a general pardon can redeem  
The Authors judgement, fortified in this,  
By forcing all to mark what is amiss:  
Where by an humble and submissive way,  
The Prologue might please some, if not the Play.  
I some, tis true, and who hath yet pleased all?  
Who had that aim; expressed his wit but small.  
Theres enough said, those that can judge of plays  
Will find as little to dislike, as praise.   

ARVIRAGUS AND PHILICIA.  
Enter SINATVS and ADRASTVS. ADRASTUS. 
I Wonder much Sinatus that no messenger comes from th' army, and it so near; tis a great oversight in the present general t' bee so slow in giving intelligence, I was not wont t' do so.  SINATUS. 
Tis true indeed Adrastus, for some of your Souldiers was always running homeward; either for fear or want of pay.  ADRASTUS. 
Was that my fault, which fear in them, or necessity inforc?? I had do money sent when 'twas due.  SINATUS. 
I think ye were indeed a month behind, but was not the Enemies Country open, scarce a troope of horse drawn into the field, but few of foot, and could ye think of pay from home? so think and gape after it, as in the expectation t' lose your opportunity: lye still, nay, suffer the enemy t'draw t'gether, and lodge betwixt you and this City; even t'th' danger of th' Princes person, and then steal hither t'complain your men forsook ye.  ADRASTUS. 
Did they not rise all in a mutiny? what could I do?  SINATUS. 
Nay, you did well t' come, th' Gods bee ever prays'd for't, too long ye were a coming, for ye came about the safer way; but th' present general which your wisdom now finds fault with for slow intelligencer, necessity enforcing it, broken thorough that army you avoided, with a single troope, and with th' fiery bravery of his spirit soon thawd the ycie fears, that you their former general had frose about our souldiers hearts.  ADRASTUS. 
Me Lord, ye have a privilege to speak, ye know th' quall of your tongue, it wounds no man.  SINATUS. 
Tho your Lordship hath expressed so little man in the discharge of your great employment, that you are safe where men are onely wounded, is't in th' nature of a ●are, or fearful dear, a man may draw blood of your Honour.  ADRASTUS. 
You quickly should repent this snarling Sinatus, did I think this a fit time for private brauls.  SINATUS. 
He that should not repent of his sins till you found a fit time to fight, were in an ill case for certain.  Enter the King and Prince reading letters. KING reads. 
royal Sir, your Enemies have tried the force of your just Arms, and if not fly, retreat: your presence cannot but bring an entire victory, the honour of which is laid down at your royal feet by your servant and scholar in arms.  
Arviragus.  GUI. 
From me, Sir, were these glories ravished, in granting him the honour t'be your general against th' Danes, sure Arviragus in your son, and I some stranger to your blood; o● so degenerate, that you believe I want courage, or judgement, t' reach, or execute your great designs, as well as he; for t'beleeve his virtue of itself could act such wonders, were t' forget your Glories won before he had a name, or interest in th' war to my disgrace.  KING. 
My son, be better tempered, and yield as I did t'necessitie; what wise, or loving father wood have sent his onely son into an army filled with discontent, and mutiny, where thou wert liker t'become a sacrifice to please their high swollen rage, than find obedience, without which, there's no usual way t'glory? that army moves t'its own funeral, that charges th'enemy with hearts divided.  GUI. 
Sir, can ye think my presence h●d not an equal power amongst your natural Subjects, t'settle what was out of order? small is t' comfort I shall find hereafter t'be their King, if heaven shall call you first, yet Arviragus, a stranger, hath a precedence in their loves.  KING. 
Not in their loves, my son, I think not so, but in th'opinion of his fortune; Victory still attending his most rash, and heady actions: five several Battels he hath won against our enemies, all odds of men or place unthought of, in his own person acting wonders, as they call them; but I thinking t'let th'armie see t'was their joint valour, number of men, and ancient discipline, gained frequent victories, and not their Generalls valour, in stead of Arviragus, sent as ye know, Adrastus.  GUI. 
And all Sir, as you ordered it, turned t'his greater glory: but I shall never look on him, but as a basilisk, that killing quality; wee must divide betwixt us, wee cannot both breath in one air, his glories poison me to death.  KING. 
My son, in thy desires, as well as blood, till this expression of thy thoughts thou wert not half so dear; I was afraid th'outward friendships twixt you and Arviragus had been made real by your bringing up together, but now confirmed in the opinion, and joying in thy just hatred to one so prejudicial t' thy greatness: know, from thy careful father, this Monster Giant Arviragus, that dwarfs our glories by his fatal growth, this son of honour, so they call him, no longer shall eclipse thy splendour, but set in blood and ruin, and on his tomb th'amazed world shall red an Epitaph of foul ingratitude and treason.  GUI. 
As how? th' means t' this?  KING. 
Let it suffice t' know it when it is done, and reap th' profit; the trouble and the danger both be mine.  Enter EUGENIUS. 
Th' news?  EUGENIUS. 
Our general, Prince Arviragus returns victorious, Th' Danes are fled back to there strengths by his sole valour overcome.  KING. 
Eugenius wee believe thy valour and good conduct was equally available for us in this defeat, and one day thou mayst know how much wee covetise thee: Adrastus wait us in our private Chamber.  Exit. King Adrastus others. ADR. 
I shall Sir.  GUI. 
Sinatus here's a glorious victory attained, and with small loss, Arviragus does so great service t'th' state, that no reward can equal.  SIN. 
Yer, Sir, there's a reward will equal his deserts, and well become your intercession, and your fathers royal bounty, I mean his fathers principality; I am a witness 'twas promised if he returned victorious.  GUI. 
Promises made upon necessity can bind no wise man t'performance. Besides, he from my fathers mercy had his being, all he can perform is duty, and cannot claim a recompense.  SIN. 
Yet promises of Princes( earthly Gods) like those above, should be performed for their own truth and glory though not for our desert.  GUI. 
But Sinatus if they please to forget a Promise, I should not think him wise wood-force them to remember it.  SIN. 
Force ill becomes a subject, but humble truth should not offend.  GUI. 
But if th' sense be proud and haughty, 'tis not th'humble sound of words that can excuse it: for know Sinatus t' thee I speak it that art a friend t' Arviragus, it will be dangerous for him but once t'thinke on that rash promise made by my father; there must not bee another Prince of Pictland that myself, if I be worthy to bee my fathers heir.  SIN. 
There's none Sir, will dispute it.  GUI. 
None dares.  SIN. 
Not I, Sir: your pardon, if my freedom have offended in what I thought touched yours, and your royal fathers honor.  GUI. 
Can any thing more prejudice our honor, than deminution of our power?  SIN. 
No power is strong or firm, that hath not Justice for its base, unless th' gods could cease to be.  GUI. 
One of their greatest attributes is power, and they delight t'see it exercised on earth, nor will I fail my part, if e're I come t' act their stroke of justice: why should it light on me more then my father, who for prosperity in all his actions, is yet the wonder of the World?  SIN. 
May a remain such, and you succeed unto his happiness; it is, and shall bee still my prayer: but Sir, my fears, if you do things unjust, will not forsake me.  GUI. 
Rather thy wish, than fear Sinatus; he that's a friend t' Arviragus, I pronounce my enemy, if he embrace a thought of his fathers principality; if not, I am his friend, as formerly, ready to grant him any other honor: this if you tell him, ye shall not displease me.  Exit. SIN. 
O Arviragus, I foresee thy danger growing equal with thy glories: 'tis strange that envy should bee the child of virtue, that or felicity is still one parent: but did a noble emulation fire this Princes blood, what brave effects, happy unto this state, would follow? where on the contrary, blood, and destruction will have, I fear, a mighty triumph: for Arviragus cannot but know his injuries, and his own power t'right 'em, having entire possession of the souldiers hearts.  
You Gods avert my fears, or let me be  
closed in my urn, e're th'effect I see.  Exit. Enter KING, ADRASTUS. KING. 
Thus Adrastus, thou seest a way to my security, and thy revenge, and that thou mayst be more confirmed, I here pronounce him traitor to me and to th'State, to quit thee from the guilt; only strike sure, I mean make thy choice wisely, apt both thy instruments, and time for them t'act in.  AD. 
Sir, fear not me, onely believe I not forget, tho the performance prove not sudden; you know his strength and courage; besides your wise advertisement enjoins me to be wary.  KING. 
I commit the affair wholly t'thy discretion, honest Adrastus.  ADRA. 
Your majesty much honours me, above my merit.  Exit. KING. 
Ile swear I do, for thou art a base coward, slave, and he that is so, can have nor faith, nor honesty: yet fittest for the employment I have given thee, as one that hath already hatred 'gainst Arviragus from th'disgrace his last achievements stick upon thee, and th' antipathy betwixt their natures, both which will help t'free me from suspicion; but I must add another strength t'these. Who waits? I gave command Sinatus should be sent for, is a yet come?  LORD. 
He waits without, Sir.  Exit. Enter SINATUS. KING. 
Call him in.  
Sinatus, let me with thee rejoice thou good old man, thy foster child, and my apt scholar, th'happie and obliging Arviragus is with his victorious army close by the walls, leading in triumph the Danish general. I long till I enclose within these aged arms, that miracle of men, and make him great, as he is good and glorious.  SIN. 
O Sir, how like your royal self these words express you, Heavens, let these tears of joy, draw down a blessing on this gracious Prince, you powers, how will the perfect vision of your goodness ravish us, when these your substitutes by actions, just and noble, beget such joys both t' themselves and us!  KING. 
Rise, how wood th'act performed transport this honest fool, that is thus ravished with the proposition? Sinatus to thy care I here commit th' charge of his just triumph in entering the city, let there not want a circumstance that may express his welcome, and our joy to see him.  SIN. 
But Sir, I fear the Prince.  KING. 
O doubt him not, tis we are King.  
See all prepared.  Exit. Sinatus. 
The glory Arviragus shall receive, will more increase the Princes hate against him, if it be real; tis possible it may not be so, he might dissemble to sift my thoughts, and if a love him, as he in younger yeares hath seemed do all with an intent to save him from my anger. When Arviragus was a child, to flatter with the Lords of Pictland, he had his bringing up with my own son and daughter, amongst them, there seemed to bee so strict an amity, that it displeased me not a little; a broke that friendship not by force, but policy and might, thinking to over-reach them, cousin myself and they love yet each other; but sure my fears are vain, Guimantes can not so much degenerate from me his father, to love him that suppliants, and renders him contemptible to all my subjects,  
That man does not deserve a prince name,  
That lets a subject live to share his famed.  
Th' gods themselves,  
Did I but fear their splendour darkened mine,  
should have no Priest, nor offering at their shrine.  Enter GUIDERIUS, and ARVIRAGUS. ARVI. 
My best Guiderius, this letter from th' princess which thou hast brought me, contains within such various matter of joy and sorrow, I cannot but communicate it with thee, whose love and friendship hath been so useful to me; there thou shalt find assurance of a love so great and noble, that I must blushy t'think I have done so little to deserve it; but then again she gives me notice of so unjust a hatred in her brother, that it begets my sorrow and amazement.  GUID. 
It cannot be the Prince Guimanthes should so reward your service done to him, as well as to his father.  AR. 
believe, as thou wouldst do th'sentence of an Oracle: comes it not from th'Princesse? the time fits not, at night I'll red it to thee. go now and bid Eugenius thy noble father advance the troops, and march in order with their prisoners, wee are close upon the Ports.  GUID. 
I shall Sir.  Exit. AR. 
So great a growth of virtue, and discretion in one so young shows well whose son thou art; whether Eugenius hath more engaged me by his acts in war, or this his son aiding me in my love, is yet a doubt. Pardon me love, that I do not give sentence on thy side; wars glories does immediately attend, but Hymens torches are not lighting yet.  Exit. Enter EUGENIUS, GUIDERIUS and other; with the general, and other Captives, and Prisoners. They march half the Stage. Enter at the other door, the KING, GUIMANTES, PHILICIA, ADRASTUS, and others. 
Arviragus received by the King, crowned by the princess with a Garland, and so lead off betwixt them.  Shout within. Manet GUIMANTES, and one other. GUI. 
O my vexed soul, must I endure this? can the joy of ●revenge when acted, make satisfaction? could my just hatred, by spell, or incantation corrupt that wreathe my officious sister crowned him with, give it a poisonous quality, and kill him e're to pickaxes sun; yet were a still for me a proper mark of envy: what man is there can hope to bee immottall here? a glorious death then is th'highest wee can aim at; and that I fear, neither my fathers cunning, nor my hatred can deny this happy Arviragus. Th' tribute of th' peoples loves sealed to him as his due, by th' permission of this triumph is not by any act of grace or policy to bee recovered, but they will pay it, tho he were extinct unto his memory: his famed's now raised above the reach of calumny; my fathers boasted weapon for Arviragus ruin, such tedious remedies ill fit th' desperatnesse of my disease, my honour's wounded to th'death.  
Let age rest on its proper help, and wound by art:  
Force, youth becomes; this sword shall pierce his heart.  Exit. Enter ARVIRAGUS, and GUIDERIUS. AR. 
'tis near upon the time Guiderius, I would not have the princess come down into th' Garden before us, it were as if a Deity should wait the leisure of a mortal.  GUI. 
My dear Lord and cousin, you that are lovers are to familiar with the gods, and by that frequent similes touching on them, sully there exellence.  ARVI. 
Not if we by th' beauty and perfections of th' Creature raise up our thoughts to that more excellent from whence they have their being: but Sir I find your cunning in taxing lovers, you wo'd remove from me that jealousy you gave me by your last nights dream, When you so oft made mention of th' princess, and with such passion that if I were not very confident of her affection, I sho'd no longer trust you to visit her, least you supplanted me.  GUI. 
I must confess me Lord th' Prneesse Letter that you shewed me had in it such lively heat, such charming sweetness, that since that time I have done nought but think on her and you, and that it seems made me talk in my sleep.  AR. 
I do believe it, for I know my joys must needs bee thine.  GUID. 
Or else I must not be myself, you are to me all that the gods can give man kind to bless him with on earth.  Enter 2 Murtherers. AR. 
Which love when I forget my dearest cousin, may these powers cease to take protection of me, a wretch become ungrateful to th' best of friends.  GUI. 
What men are these? they do not watch us sure, how ever lets not enter now, but seem as if we went away from th' garden door.  1. 
Lets not loose this opportunity, Adrastus will make us rich for ever.  Exit AR and GUID. 2. 
do not dischargethe your pistol till you be close upon him, night shelters us.  Ex. Ambo. A pistol shot off within Enter one after him, ARVIRAGVS. AR. 
Villain and traitor—  Wounds him— 1. 
O I am justly punished—  Dyes. AR. 
My dear Guiderius, speak where art thou?  Enter GVID. here Sir, are you safe? AR. 
Not hurt, nor you I hope.  GVID. 
A scratch sir, with th' villains sword before he fled.  AR. 
Where is your hurt?  GVI. 
T'is not worth speaking of, upon my hand, no more nor if I had cut my finger. But I believe to have stained my mayd'n sword in his best blood, I felt it pierce him.  AR. 
This accident comes most unhappily to cross my meeting with th'Princesse, nor can I be assurd th'cause of this bloody attempt, whether by accidence, or from design.  GUID. 
The Prince Guimantes cannot sure have a hand in this.  AR. 
O do not think it, come let me bring you  
To my chamber.  GUID. 
How Sir, will you neglect to meet th'Princesse?  AR. 
I would not, but your hurt?  GUID. 
My hurt? wound me no deeper by being a sharer of your discontent, in missing so great joys as you expect.  AR. 
I fain would see you at my chamber dressed.  GUID. 
If I were in love I should not be thus civill to a friend, and so uncivil to a Mistris; th'Princesse cannot but ●xpect you, pray let us go.  AR. 
You shall not dear Guiderius, pray leave me.  GUID. 
My heart misgives that some mis-fortune may fall out, pray let me wait upon you, my wound is nothing.  AR. 
Leave me, or ye will make me jealous that ye are in love with Philicia, and for her sake, not mine, would bear me company.  GUID. 
This jesting to me shall serve for earnest, since 'tis a full assurance you wo'not have me go, farewell.  AR. 
I shall not long be from you, keep close this accident that chanc't, and so we may discover something that we know not.  GUID. 
I shall obey, th'Gods protect you.  EX. Ambe. Enter PHILICIA. PHI. 
Faint hearted Philicia, how canst thou be so timorous? cannot th'thought of meeting him( 'twixt whom and fear there's an antipathy) beget more confidence? if I, as he hath often swore, possess the valiant heart of Arviragus, could I thus tremble? a pistol shot, but not at me; clashing of swords, yet I was safe; not, if my Arviragus were an actor, for then my heart may bleed in him; that, that begets my fear: 'twas near the Garden wall, at our appointed time; some minutes now are past, yet he's not come; from which sad circumstance I wish my reason did not force me draw a likelihood of such misfortune, that proving true, I shall no longer wish to have a being.  1. 
Oh, oh.  PHI. 
Ye powers, save me from a despair, in which if I thus die, I shall blaspheme your justice, inform my doubtful soul ready to take her flight, whose dying groans these be: if it bee not my lovers, whisper it gently and restore my sense; but if those killing accents came from Arviragus, speak then in thunder, and confounded me and my sense for ever,  1. 
Oh— oh— help— help—  PHI. 
Ah me, what shall I do to ease my tortured soul! doubt is a greater mischief than despair whilst it hath being; Love be my guide, that I may be resolved, but how? the key which I should open this door with, I sent by young Guiderius for Arviragus passage, there being none but that and my fathers for this Garden.  Enter ARIRAGUS, opens a door. 
Stay, flatter me not t'fast my joys, sure th'doore opens, be true this once my senses; and let it be my love, and tho you oft hereafter shall deceive me.  
I forgive ye.  AR. 
Madam?  PHI. 
O speak again, that I may be assured.  AR. 
Why, fairest Mistris, do ye think any other  
Can be so blessed to meet you here but I?  PHI. 
O my dear servant, pardon these fears that rise  
From tenderness of you; I heard a pistol shot,  
And men fight, sure one's killed close by the  
Garden door.  AR. 
Were you so soon come down?  PH●. 
Ha! so soon, why, did you hear it?  AR. 
Yes, Madam, I did.  PHI. 
But were not there, I hope?  AR. 
Not in th' bullets way, I thank th'Gods, but do not spend this happy opportunity that takes addition from th'danger past, in questioning my safety, since you see me here; where I must first upon my knee kiss this faire hand, that placed upon my head a wreathe triumphant, th' virtue doubled from your touch, and what the gazing multitude did not permit to my discretion, th'placing it where it was onely due, yet here my souls devotion by my tongue proclaims th' faire Philicia conqueror of him whom she did crown, in which submission, if she be but pleased, shee again crownes her servant with happiness above all earthly Monarchs.  PHI. 
My dearest servant, that I meet you thus alone, gives you assurance of my love, and confidence of your clear virtue, more than a thousand oaths, twixt you and me. Th'Ceremoniall part of love is long since past, we loved so much when wee were children, before wee knew in words how to express a passion, that now after so many degrees, to serve ourselves with language, or professions, were justly to beget a doubt wee did not love, at least not as we ought, or else were ignorant of one anothers passions; which were a crime I hope we never shall be guilty of.  AR. 
Yet since, my dearest Mistris, nothing thats mortal but may receive additions in perfection, tis fit that we express a sense of their increase: were't but in thankfulness unto th' Gods, much more when those excelling graces by a particular application are made my blessings, should I express a joy, nay rapture, when I look on my own wants of merit, made capable of such a blessing only from my truth of love.  PHI. 
O do not arrogate, my dearest Arviragus, unto yourself, that which most properly belongs unto our Sex to love the best, for so you call in question th'excellencie of the subject, from whence the passion springs, and that( man) is th' no●lest creature, the Gods and Nature long since have determined.  AR. 
What long since was determined, binds not the present, since there is nothing permanent on earth; but grant this privilege to such who pleaded it, and by that call in question their proper merit: no general rule but does admit of an exception, for tho you were not in the opinion of the world, as indeed you are excellent above mankind, yet may you be to me all that my fancy can propose, and I should love ye at that rate.  PHI. 
It seems then that a transcendency in love arise not so much from th'object that begets it, as from the apted purity of that soul, and fancy where it is nourishd: if so, then certainly women love more than men, their fancy being equal, and th'disturbance of that fancy less,( in my particular at least undoubted) for whilst my dearest Arviragus thought often of affairs of State and stratagems in war; I never had a thought but now to yield him mine, and conquer his most noble heart.  AR. 
In which you have conferred so great a blessing on your servant, that I shall not profane th' powers, to say they cannot equal, nor add more than a confirmation: how shall I then confess your merit less than mine, your power so great?  PHI. 
'tis not my power dear servant, but your acceptation makes it so great a blessing.  AR. 
'twill be presumption to confess this, yet it will withall approve the height of my affection, which we disputed of.  PHI. 
'twill approve it such as I do glory in, for you have spoken my thoughts as well as yours.  AR. 
●ince then we have one soul; why should our bodies lon●er be at distance?  PHI. 
They should not if I had my fathers power, what I can give is yours.  AR. 
This faire soft hand, on which I take the boldness to print a zealous kiss, is yet denied me; so, as I dare ●carce presume to ask it, least it should show too much ●elfe love.  Enter KING, ADRASTUS. PHI. 
Ah me! I fear we are betrayed, there's some with lights come from my chamber, sure 'tis my father; what will he think?  AR. 
Think that you love me, dearest Mistris, and not be angry I must hope.  PHI. 
But, dear servant, if it be possible, avoid his sight, as yet things are not ripe for a discovery; my brother may be there too: and what mischief his hatred may beget, I tremble but to think on: your passage is free to th'door: I'll meet them.  AR. 
cross Fate!  
Not so much time allowed to bid farewell,  
Partings of lovers is earths greatest hell.  Exit Arviragus. KING. 
What daughter, do ye use to walk so late? or is this accident? alone too; none of your maids worthy to keep you company.  PHI. 
Sometimes there's none but wish to be alone, and this place, tho it be night,( you know Sir) is secure as my own chamber.  KING. 
Maids, they say, should never bee alone, but when they pray.  PHI. 
I sha'not lie Sir, to say I prayed since I came down into this Garden, and do so now, my love may not bee known.  KING. 
keep some distance from us, wee'l walk a turn.  PHI. 
O, I fear.  KING. 
Thou knowest how dearly I have loved thee, and do profess my care of thee is such, that I do wish I could bestow on thee a kingdom for thy dowry, tho with the hazard of my life I purchased it: in recompense of all my care that's past, and expectation of my future kindness; nay, as thou dost expect my blessing, and fearest my curse, answer directly to what I shall ask thee.  PHI. 
O I am ruined.  KING. 
Why dost thou look so pale, and shake so?  PHI. 
To hear you muster up these fearful conjurations, yet know not to what they possibilie may tend.  KING. 
Why dost thou tremble so? bee more assured, I am thy father; no enemy that comes to circumvent thee, this unaccustomed fear makes me believe thou hast some guilt, thou wudst not have me know: but Ile not take th' more: Love.  PHI. 
Ha?  KING. 
Love, and hate is that I come to question with thee of.  PHI. 
With me? who should I hate or love more than my duty binds me?  KING. 
'tis of thy brothers love to Arviragus, his former love I mean, or present hate; whether thou thinkest it only seeming, or believest it real; I know thy brothers soul is open to thee, and free, to me he's disguised: th' thought of this makes me conjure thee thus, that I may be assured, for from that knowledge will arise my safety and th' States, therefore upon my blessing speak truly thy thoughts.  PHI. 
Then Sir, I dare confidently affirm my brother hates Arviragus more than he ever loved him; but with what Justice I leave it to your majesty, the ground of his dislike not being possibly other than th'great service he hath done for you and him.  KING. 
'twas his ambition daughter, not affection made him so forward in our cause, e're long his Treasons will appear.  PHI. 
What Treasons? I shall betray myself by passion.  KING. 
Such as I did not think his youth, which was so full of goodness, could ever have been poisoned with; you shall know more hereafter.  PHI. 
I know to much already.  KING. 
In this assurance you have obliged your father, daughter go to your rest, I will to mine, and this is my nearest way to my chamber.  Exit Philicia. 1. 
Stay Sir, here, not far from th'Garden door, lies one dead, or asleep.  KING. 
Let's see, bring him hither, call for more lights: this man is murdered, the wounds bleed fresh.  AD. 
Tis he.  KING. 
Strange, is not our Palace free from slaughter? who durst do this?  Enter servants with lights, and one killed. 1. 
Another, Sir, that we found dead hard by, and if I bee not mistaken, this was Adrastus servant.  ADRASTUS. 
Ha, my servant? 'tis he unhappy wretch, it seems they quareld in drink, or other ways, and so killed one th' other.  KING. 
'tis possible so, but not very likely, dispose their bodies, to morrow we'l examine better; had one of these been Arviragus, th' heavens had smiled upon us, none could have guest who did it, and wee had been secure.  ADRASTUS. 
Give me leave to wait upon you to your private chamber, there you shall know, who in all likelihood did murder these.  KING. 
'tis impossible you should.  ADRASTUS. 
You will not think so, when you know these very men I did appoint to dispatch Arviragu●.  KING. 
Ha, these men?  ADRASTUS. 
Yes, Sir.  KING. 
Were such slaves fit to be trusted, that would attempt, and fail?  ADRASTUS. 
You see they have sealed the intention with their blood, tho fortune favoured not.  KING. 
do thou so too, effect what thou hast undertaken, and that with speed, or by th'Gods thou art like these.  
The end of the first Act.   
Enter SINATUS, EUGENIUS, ARVIRAGUS, and GUIDERIUS. AR. 
Sinatus, I have so many obligations to you, that I despair of payment now; especially since you persuade me to forget that I was the King of Pictland's son, which kingdom by your Master is usurped; and tho I have with hourly hazard of my life, preserved his crown upon his head, I must not dare to urge th' promise which he so solemnly did make before th' Gods and men, to seat me on my fathers throne, if I return'd victorious.  SINATUS. 
My dearest Lord, this is the sum of my advice; which if you shall neglect, I fear most sad effects effects will follow, and so I leave you, least being observed, I suffer for my too much love.  ARVI. 
Farewell kind foster-father.  SIN. 
May th'Gods look on you, and your Actions with a favourable aspect.  Exit Sinatus. AR. 
cousin Eugenius, whats your advice? shall I not claim my double right of inheritance, and promise.  EUGENIUS. 
Not whilst you are within th' tyrants reach, fly to th' army which is not yet disbanded, and then ye have power to make your own conditions, they will receive you for their captain, and move whither or how you please.  AR. 
'tis true Eugenius, I do believe they would, but 'twere neither just, nor noble for me to bee th' head to so rebellious a body: persuade those Souldiers, who under my command by frequent victories are become famous, to lose all they have won, by one infamous act; what tho a be to me a tyrant, he is yet their lawful Prince, nor ought they to be Judges of his actions; nor my dear cousin, if the gods be pleased that justice shall take place, numbers are not considerable: some of the Picts, altho the most be slaved under the Saxon yoke, do yet retain minds worthy their ancestors, and dare, to serve their Prince, die full of wounds, rather than yeares: five hundred thus resolved, drawn but together to begin th'play, would make th' tyrant, e're a year come round, find perjury, and injustice lie heavy on his soul.  EUG. 
Sir, bee but pleased to quit the Court, and show your person, and design unto your countrymen, and I dare promise twice that number in three dayes.  AR. 
Necessity enforces me to leave th' Court, or live dishonourable here; but love that tells me I cannot live but here: is love and honor opposite? they are twins that in my soul strive for pre-eminence, and whilst they do so raise it higher, honour thou hast o'ercome by help of reason:  
Which tells me love does live, tho honor reign,  
But he whose honor yields to love, his honor's slain.  EUG. 
speak Sir, are ye resolved?  AR. 
I am, only 'twere fit, to clear me to th' world, I ask performance of that promise from th' King, which I am well assured he will not grant me.  EUG. 
'twill be dangerous.  AR. 
Not at all, as I will move it, I have many friends in Court; besides th'Army not being yet dissolved he dare not injure me; this very night you shall take horse, about it streight, our time is short.  EUG. 
Your stable's so well furnished, one out of the City shall be safe enough.  Exit Eugenius. AR. 
Guiderius, our enterprise can never prosper, unless I kiss the princess hand, and obtain her leave, which she would never grant, did she know all my design, as she must do in part.  GVID. 
Your meeting must be in th' Garden, she dares not have you in her chamber, least some of her women should know it.  AR. 
Alas, I am a torment to her.  GUID. 
How she would chide you, did she hear; you might as well have said, you are to me a trouble.  AR. 
I dare not say so.  GUID. 
Nor should you think th'other; Ile know her hour when she would have you come.  Exit Guid. AR. 
do so, deere Guiderius.  Enter KING, and ADRASTUS, attendants. KING. 
'twas so, it could be no other ways, Arviragus killed them both: but I must smooth my brow; tell me brave Arviragus, why we enjoy so little of your company, and it so dear to us.  ARVI. 
I shall be ever ready to receive and execute what you command me, Sir, but to importune you with frivolous discourse fits not a soldier: I have no business, Sir, but one, and that I hope I shall not need to put your Maestie in mind of.  Enter GUIMANTES. KING. 
I know no suit ye moved me in, but when ye do, ye are like to speed.  AR. 
I could have wishd the Prince not here, but now it must seem fear, should I not name it.  KING. 
What was it Arviragus, you did move me in?  AR. 
I must not take, Sir, from your nobleness to say I made a suit, you were royally pleased to promise, that you would place me in my fathers principality, if I return'd victorious from the war.  GUI. 
Ha, place you on your fathers seat? first free yourself form servitude, before you be a Prince.  AR. 
From servitude? whose servant am I; rather, whose slave? for in that sense you speak it: 'tis true, I have done service, kings service, commanded a brave army, laboured for victory thorough sweat, and blood.  GUI. 
And ye were crowned for that, have triumphed, an honour far above your merit, since that hath swelled you up so high, that ye forget those to whom you owe your being.  AR. 
I owe my being to th'Gods.  GUI. 
And to my father that preserved your life.  ARVI. 
I must confess to him my obligation's great, but yet must take th' boldness to tell his son, he spoken not in this strain, when I last undertook the war: withall, that if I owe his father for a life, he and his father both owe me for the security of theirs, and of theit crown, which sate but tottering till I fastened it.  GUI. 
Thy traitors head does so upon thy shoulders, or I renounce th'obedience of a son; Sir, shall a live?  KING. 
My son we must not for a few rash words forget the worthy service he hath done us. Remember henceforth Arviragus this is our son, and heir to both our kingdoms, and we shall study to forget your present boldness.  AR. 
And without study ye will forget your promise to me for my fathers kingdom.  KING. 
If I do not, son do you assist me.  ARVI. 
No Sir, let him forget virtue and all th' bravery of his younger yeares, and when he comes to reign be old in mischief, rich in his peoples curse, when he hath bathed them in a sea of blood.  GUI. 
Thus Ile begin then.  Offers to kill Arviragus, some draw some part. KING. 
Treason, traytors.  AR. 
If there be any here Sir, 'tis your son, that acts your part, e're you are in your grave, condemning such to die that seek your preservation.  KING. 
I must dissemble I see th' whole Court does conspire with him: Guimantes ye were to rash, 'twas an act neither becoming you a Prince, or duteous son, and know good Arviragus how e're we seem before our son to be offended with your claim, we shall find time to make our promise good, only know this, that Princes in matters of this nature love not to be much urged; son, if you would have me to forget your error, do you forget all that hath past betwixt you and Arviragus, you have been bread together from your child-hood, for shane now fall not out for trifles, I mean for words, which past, could you, as I, forgive them, and forget as just nothing, lost in that air of which they were framed.  AR. 
Sir, I in all things shall obey.  KING. 
Guimantes, give me your hand?  GVI. 
I must obey you Sir.  KING. 
How I am joyed in this accord; son give me your hand, and princely Arviragus yours;  
'tis only home-divisions ruins states,  
Thus guarded I durst war against th'Fates.  Enter PHILICIA, and GUIDERIUS. PHI. 
Oh my Guiderius, tho I cannot give a reason,  
Yet me thinks th'expectation of those joys  
Are stronger in my soul than they had wont to  
Be, from which thoughts, which usually did throb,  
And beat with apprehension of I know not  
What danger, still when I was, as now, to meet  
My love, is light and jocund, but sure 'tis near  
Upon th'appointed time, whilst we do think on  
Arviragus, we may seem to have forgot him.  GUID. 
Madam, I do believe 'twill be by that time  
You are at your chamber, and so down into th'  
Private Garden.  PHI. 
Call in my women then, and gentle youth, good night,  
Mayst thou be when e're thou lovest, as thou  
Endevor'st to make me, most happy.  GUID. 
The wish is like yourself, full of goodness; yet  
Trust me Madam, I shall never love any  
Woman with so much passion, as I do Prince  
Arviragus: but Madam, e're we part, permit  
An honor, which I perchance may never—  PHI. 
What never?  GUID. 
Child that I am, I was about to say, never receive again.  PHI. 
Guiderius, thou art troubled.  GUID. 
Not I Madam.  PHI. 
Thou art, th'teares stand in thy faire eyes; what was the meaning of that intercepted, never, that with a sigh came from thee?  GUID. 
I was about to say, th' honor I received in kissing your princely hand I never could forget; but ravished with th' touch, I raised my thoughts unto those greater happinesses that Arviragus one day might receive, and from the sense of so great blessing to my Prince and friend, let fall those tears of Joy.  PHI. 
Sure thou wudst be above what e're yet was known excellent in friendship; but whilst I stay justly to praise thee, I may do injury to him, whose worth and love makes thee so true a friend; nay, lose the benefit of that I magnify thee for. Where are ye Ladies? once more goodnight.  Exit Philicia. GUID. 
May it prove such, for my presaging soul tells me, 'twill be th'last leave we shall ever take.  Exit. Enter ARVIRAGUS. AR. 
But what are these to me? women and children build on dreams, and fancies; Shall I, whom real dangers in their most horrid forms could never fright, bee troubled at these nothings?  An owl shrieks. 
shriek on, and fright some thief, or bloody murderer, whose conscience is black, and apted for these apprehensions; not guilty blood does clog, or stain my soul, all was in rightful war that e're I  shed, and yet it was a Tyrant's will guided my sword; 'gainst whom? Soft, sure my nose bleeds, if any, this must bee to me a fatal warning, since never till this minute did it bleed before; and sure this my own proper blood now dropping from me, informs that I  shed some blood of my own subjects, and even of sueh as bravely fought for liberty against a Tyrant. Pardon you Powers, I shortly shall redeem that error of my child-hood, for restoring of my captived country.  
I am now just at th' place, fatal to those that did assail me; 'tis worth my care, and preparation, tho not my fear; I need no other wound, but th' sad parting from my dear Mistris.  Enter ARVIRAGUS and PHILICIA. AR. 
Madam, you still prevent me, and your own appointed times; yet 'tis but like your other gracious favours, in every act causing addition to that love, which I believed complete, but here, and in celestial bodies, my love and admiration rise higher, as I increase in knowledge of your excellence, and love to me.  PHI. 
My love to you, fortune, my dearest servant, hath yet been wanting, in an occasion wherein I might express what I would do for you.  AR. 
Take heed, you do complain too soon, th'occasion is too near, and fierce necessity compels me with an abruptnesse, bordering on incivility, to beg an answer to that suit I scarce had moved, when we were interrupted by your fathers coming; to think you did not understand me, were but to call in question th'intelligene our truly loving souls have held so long.  PHI. 
Tis true, I did, 'twas a contract that you meant, Ile name it plainly for you; I dare as boldly speak my thoughts to you, as I dare think them. Let ceremonious lovers, that with strange hyperbolical expressions seek to endear each other, be more in heart, than in their tongues, mine neither shall come short, nor yet exceed what my soul feels: I love thee, noble Arviragus, equal with myself; but yet less than mine honour, which by a private contract needs must suffer.  AR. 
dear mistris, be not offended, that with a soul as free I speak my thoughts; did I believe this your refusal grew not from an opinion, that e're long your fathers liking might be won to crown your wishes, I should not know which way to find a cure for th' deep wound that you have given men, nor shall I for mine own sake wish to live after this hour, when I shall let you know the cause that makes me press this grant if ye shall then refuse it.  PHI. 
Altho I fear to bid you, name it.  AR. 
What you perhaps may have suspected in part be pleased to know for certain, there's no time, nor place where I can count myself secure; Danger, and of all kinds circles me round, both force and policy are set on work; your brothers malice hath prevailed, poisoned your fathers soul with foul ingratitude, within whose smiles I red certain destruction, which by th'Gods I am commanded to prevent by flight, least I should force them be unjust, or tempt them by a miracle to save my life, this minute that I kneel and beg your licence to depart, 'tis not unlike I may bee pierced thorough with a bullet, for there are spies upon me, nor shall their execution need if you deny th'blessing of your plighted faith: that curse will strike me dead.  PHI. 
Rise, rise Arviragus.  AR. 
Not till you grant my svit.  PHI. 
How can I without breach of duty?  AR. 
How can I live then removed from you in person, and wanting th' great assurance of your love?  GUI. 
Can you suspect my faith?  PHI. 
If I did so suspect your faith, I should not thus beg th'engangement of it, but I may doubt your love equals nor mine, since you deny me to make me blessed by an assurance.  PHI. 
The love you injure thus is made apparent most in this refusal, let such whose loves are tottering, and unstable, who have not virtue, and perfection for their grounds, seek aids, and ceremonial bands to hold them firm; mine is a love, as fixed as are thy virtues, which does admit no possibility of change.  AR. 
But if your father shall dispose your person to another, what then becomes of all this glorious boast of love, and constancy? think not to say, you ever will bee mine in soul: th' Gods that joined that and the body, as well allow selfe-murther, as these to have a separation after marriage.  PHI. 
I could not pardon this so low a thought, but that th' injury does more reflect upon yourself than me; since you profess you love her, that you yet believe so worthless; but to th' purpose, my soul tells me your stay is dangerous; th' Gods and Nature both com●and wee should not mary 'gainst our parents will, yet that does not approve, that wee of force must mary whom th●y please, tho both show disobedience, yet th' last hath many excuses, one that th'parents dares not but accept of, devotion to the service of the Gods; but if this prove my fate, I would not for a world lose the glory of my sufferings; were I contracted yours, to die, rather than mary any other. An honest milk maid would with joy perform as much for a rude shepherd, but to stand free from any other band, than that of love, which is so often, and so easily broke by vicious souls, and yet continue constant, were an act worthy the daughter of a King, and mistris to the noble Arviragus.  AR. 
Upon my knee I thank ye more for this refusal, than ●ad you granted; ye have rectified my soul, letting me see the beauties of your own, nor had assurance suited with my doubtful fortune; since not your husband, yet as your servant, grant some favour, not that by it I may remember you, but as a charm to shield me from all dangers.  PHI. 
Then we must part, here take this bracelet, give me that ring, Ile seal my letters with it; this, and our usual character shall only bee of faith betwixt us: but in what Country do ye mean to live, until these storms blow over?  AR. 
There's nothing can alloy these storms, but my heart blood.  PHI. 
I dare not think upon my misery, it will o'rewhelme me with a sorrow not to be born; ye do not tell me where you mean to remain, or how I shall sand to ye.  AR. 
May I not be pardoned now, ye shall have notice quickly where I am.  PHI. 
What country?  AR. 
That's it I would conceal.  PHI. 
How, conceal from me?  Takes our a letter. AR. 
'twas well I did prepare for this, my dearest Mistris, it now draws towards morning, and young Guiderius with a friend or two, waits with my horse without the Ports; 'tis not consideration of my danger, so much as theirs, leaves me the use of memory to tell me what I have to do, for I for ever could remain here: bee pleased when I am gone, to red this paper; that will inform you all that I intend.  PHI. 
May I not know it now?  AR. 
Build on your servant, faith 'tis not fit ye should: O dearest Mistris, can I live, and leave you thus, since from our infancy we have grown up together?  PHI. 
Shall we ever meet again?  AR. 
I hope we shall.  PHI. 
It was but faintly spoken, there was no faith in't; Oh my sad heart!  AR. 
Am I a man, a soldier, yet play the woman thus? not to be touchd at such a parting, were to be more insensible than a rock, or Tygres, that yet pity their own distress: drop faster ye beloved tears, like those  shed for our crimes, this shane to man-hood is my height of glory.  PHI. 
O cruel farewell we shall never meet again.  
The end of the second Act.   
Enter KING. KING. 
A Dies by poison, 'tis most convenient so, both for th'acting, and concealment, there's a charm in his manly looks, or glorious name, that will deter, and daunt the boldest that shall undertake by force to kill him; no, he is a son of Mars, and by a marshall hand, or weapon cannot die, but in the field unto his fathers glory: poison must do it, th'instrument's Adrastus, engaged already in my plots, whose immediate care in this performance may redeem his former failing by his servants.  Enter SINATUS. SIN. 
Pardon dread sovereign, that I press on your retirements, yet th'importance of th'affair may well excuse a servant bound by oath to make discovery, of what he fears may touch upon his masters life, or honor.  KING. 
Ha, myself, or honor, speak wherein?  SIN. 
With all speed possible hast to the camp, and by your presence there confirm the souldiers loyalties, which else may fail.  KING. 
Why are they discontented? have I not taken order for their pay, and to the chief Commanders given rich rewards?  SIN. 
Ye have given indeed to all, and to their general, th' much loved Arviragus, a triumph but in mockery, ● he I fear receives it, since you deny his fathers Principality; could ye believe a spirit like to his would bea● those scorns the Prince did put upon him? my fear persuades me he is either fled already, or does it tend it; and whether should he go but to the Army not yet disbanded? once there, he'l force ye yeel● what he desires; and what can be to you of more dishonour? Justice, and wisdom are th' essential parts o● government, and you from this will seem in both defective.  KING. 
If this be true, as sure it is, there will bee danger o● my person in the camp opposed 'gainst one they lov● so much; the credit of Sinatus person, with my authority, will bee of equal virtue. Sinatus, to witness my belief to what I grieve at for Arviragus sake, his dangerous impatience, and unkind, unwise revolt, here take this ring, and with it power, as if myself were present; dispose the Army so, as neither my person, nor my honour perish; I do commit both to thy faith; and wisdom, and if thou find the much mistaken youth▪ tell him I take it ill, that he believes my son governs as King, I yet alive; for did a not, a would have restend on my royal word, and not have forced me by this rashness to approve that for justice in my son Guimantes, which I was resolved to punish, as malicious ingratitude; let thy own hast witness how great thou thinkest the danger.  SIN. 
I fly to serve my Prince, and save my friend.  Exit. KING. 
If Arviragus shall reach the army before he can and there, yet will Sinatus presence lessen his authority, ●t least slacken his fierceness, and give us time to arm ●esides.  Enter GUIMANTES. GUI. 
● red amazement, and distraction in your royal brow, that Sir's the news?  KING. 
The worst of ills, loss and dishonour; were mighty Jove offended, his dreadful amr strercht forth, in his fier●est boult wrapped up in thunder, and that I knew he aimed ●t my head, it would not strike my heart with half that ●error, not when the lightning singed my brows, as ●ow to know th'injur'd, and fierce Arviragus is escaped; me thinks I see him in th'head of all his Troope, his ●een sword drawn, whose brightness he hath vowed ●o change into a crimson hue, with blood of perjured, ●nd ungrateful Princes; and what thy pride and malice would not allow unto his merit, his fathers petty kingdom, shall now be multiplied by conquest on our soil, ●ill that bee thought from him a recompense but for a private captain.  GUI. 
My pride and malice? you were not rasher in making him that promise of his fathers Crown, that resolute to break it when you had done; why am I taxed then with your double fault? had ye given way, I had nailed him to th' earth before your face: now ye perceive th' uncertainty of policy compared with force; you feared the mutinous people, that was our loss, which ●●senesse when I am guilty of, let me forget my birth and hope.  KING. 
If e're you live my yeares, you'l know the common people are not to be contemned; nor should a wise prevention of discontent be accounted fear: but to th' present, what's past cannot be now recalled, what means have we to make resistance against this fury? let us consider that, and not, like women, scold ourselves into a greater disorder.  GUI. 
Why did ye not, winged with necessity, hast to th'army, when first ye heard it?  KING. 
And so perhaps have put myself in Arviragus power, if he were there before me.  GUI. 
Yet ye might have opposed me to that hazard, necessity enforcing, without a tax.  KING. 
I rather choose to sand faithful Sinatus, one that the souldiers reverence much, and who did to me discover th' flight of Arviragus.  GUI. 
would I trust him, th' only friend to Arviragus? ye are abused in all, either th' Traitor is not fled, or if a be, then is Sinatus a confederate, and they have wrought upon your timorous nature, and gained a power to work our over-ruin.  KING. 
Fon 〈…〉 y, how canst thou think thyself so far superior in thy judgement, yet seest th'colour of these hairs? consider my active life, and industry, begetting fear, and reverence, not only from my subjects, but all the neighbour Princes: no act of consequence yet ever undertaken by me, either in war or peace, but had a happy issue; how darest thou then presume to tax, as voided of reason, a counsel which 〈…〉 way can better.  GUI. 
My passion Sir, made me forgetful of my duty.  KING. 
No, no, henceforth manage your own affairs, th'kingdome's yours, at least you gape for't, counting me in my ●otage, unfit to govern now; do you redress what is ●misse, bring in this rebel by your wisdom, or your ●ower, then I shall think you fit to be my tutor.  GUI. 
Tho Sir, I no ways dare presume to such a thought to ●utor you, yet pardon me to say I dare engage my honor, ●ive me but power, to bring you back this traitor dead, or alive.  KING. 
● fear he is too strong and politic for you to cope with.  GUI. 
Sir, on my knees I beg the honor, grant me the title of ●our general, and I will cease to be your son, or bring ●dditions to your glory; why will you Sir for ever ●eep me from the souldiers knowledge? if so, take back ●his sword, to me a mockery, sand for a gown, and let and enter orders, or else become a Doctor of the Laws: ●o be a Prince, and yet not capable to led an army, is to and wanting of the noblest part of government, obnoxious to the scorn and injuries both of my own, and strangers.  KING. 
Be master of your wish, go, and with speed prepare ●ou for the war.  GUI. 
Now you are my most gracious father.  KING. 
The thanks belong unto necessity, and not my will, which would for ever have kept thee ignorant of war, thy spirit being so fiery, impatient of delays, which as I grow in yeares, may prompt thee to undermine my power at least, if not my life, and both I would have end together.  Enter one. 
The news, speak, and from whom?  1. 
From Pictland, Sir, there they are up in arms.  KING. 
Who is Leader?  1. 
Lord Eugenius.  KING. 
Eugenius, what numbers are they?  1. 
A thousand strong, but do the actions of ten thousand: upon the way I met Prince Arviragus, from expectation of whose assistance they did begin th' enterprise.  KING. 
Didst thou meet the traitor, and let him scape? hang up this slave.  1. 
Alas, my Lord, durst I oppose him?  KING. 
Thou shalt immediately oppose an enemy more  
Terrible, death; and thou shalt meet him, by  
Whom Caesar, and great Alexander were  
o'ercome: away and hang him streight; so may  
All traitor cowards, that for fear of death  
Avoid an enemy, meet death upon a gallows.  Ex. Enter ARVIRAGUS, EUGENIUS, GUIDERIUS, and other Captains. AR. 
My noble cousin, and you my faithful friends, true lovers of your Prince, and Countries liberty; what you have done already, is a brave Omen to our great design; the City you have gained will bee a sure retreat, if fortune frown, as oft she does, to whet the courages of those shee hath adopted for her favourites; even Caesar sometimes had a foil, but rise with greater courage, and at last attained the wreathe triumphant.  EVG. 
There's none are truly wise, and valiant, that are not stil prepared for other fortune; but how are you resolved to prosecute th' war? will ye lay siege to th'strong towns, or take the smaller villages, and so remove from place to place, till you increase your numbers.  AR. 
Neither I dear cousin, I know by this there is an army marching towards us, which I will meet with one of our three thousand, you with th' other two shall summon such towns as ye believe stand best affencted to us, I make no doubt divers will yield, and as ye prosper, or diminish, let me have notice by trusted Messengers.  EVG. 
But why Sir, will you endanger your person with so small numbers, on the safety of which rest all our happiness? at least take you two ports, and leave me one, I daily shall increase my troops.  AR. 
And do ye think I shall not? besides I know these souldiers I have commanded will fight against me without hearts; I fear nothing so much, as they will all revolt, and take away the glory of my victory: the moon shall no sooner be up, but I will march toward the enemy.  GUID. 
Be pleased Sir, I may wait upon you.  AR. 
Guiderius I will not part you from so good a tutor in the war, besides I will not venture both our Persons in one army: if I miscarry, for yet I have no son, bee thou my heir to all I can pretend to, only by glorious war revenge my injuries, and yield this country, what I do fail in purchasing, freedom from Saxon slavery, and make the Pictish kingdom once again considerable to all the Princes of this island.  GUID. 
O Sir, this gift is like yourself, full of that royal bountious inheritance in your soul, but yet to me it bears no value: can any blessing rise to me out of your ruin? no Sir, I must not leave you; the air, tho ne're so clear, is poison if you breath not in it, nor meat, nor sleep can nourish, wanting your company; I do beseech your highnesse leave me not behind, unless you would express I am a trouble to you.  AR. 
Oh my best friend, speak not a thing so harsh.  GVID. 
You do Sir, what ye would not have me speak, the greatest of all cruelties in leaving me behind.  EUG. 
son, if it be the Princes pleasure, I much desire stay not out of fondness, tho I love you as much as any father does; but that by you I may sand letters to him of our proceedings, and moneys which yet are wanting the sinews of the war; not have you seen your mother, or your sister yet, who pines with grief, not having seen you this seven yeares past, having remained, during these warres in Pictland.  AR. 
Guiderius, If ye desire to oblige me, refuse not a suit so just, made by a father that should command; the moon will sure be up before we shal take order for the troops: let all the Commanders bee called strait to my Tent.  GVI. 
My Lord.  AR. 
O Guiderius now and onely now you show your love to me is fondness, come I will give thee many reasons for thy stay.  GUID. 
Tho they may come from your lips such, they will have lost their force before they reach my ears; ther's nothing but the merit of obedience to my Prince can save me from an unsufferable grief for your unkindness  Ex. Omnes. Enter GVIMANTES, SINATVS, Captaines and Souldiers GUI. 
Lay hands on that old traitor, lest in the battle he should forsake us, and draw more away with him, and let him presently be put to death.  SIN. 
Thanks Prince, pay thy fathers old servants debts but thus, and thou shalt soon grow rich in hatred.  CAP. 
Me Lord, the Souldiers near will endure to see it.  GUI. 
Ha, the Souldiers near endure to see it?  CAP. 
I am confident ther's none will execute it.  GUI. 
I am confident even he that doubts shall perform it: do't thyself, or by the gods I'll bee thy executioner  CAP. 
Then Sir, you must.  GUI. 
traitor, and shall.  Sinatus receives the blow, the Prince makes at the captain. SIN. 
'twas meant to me; O hold, consider now your passion, which carries you to actions, even against your resolution; I am wounded by your own hand, temper your rage, the souldiers hearts will soon be lost, nor do I give this counsel, as I love your person, but your calling, my Prince, but most, your fathers general, on whose success depends his own, and the kingdoms safety.  Enter SOVLDIER. 
arm— arm, the enemy appears upon the rock above us, and into our quarter, my Lord, tumbles down great stones, that do most fearful execution, which unexpected accident hath put the camp in great disorder.  GUI. 
go and prevent all further mischief,  
That rock did not appear accessable to any  
human creature, sure they have borrowed  
Wings, or dropped out of the clouds.  Enter a CAPTAIN. CAP. 
Prepare Sir, for assault, th' enemy comes on a place; as if he meant to charge upon that quarter that lies 〈◇〉 furthest from the rock, and will I fear be with us e're we can put our men in order.  GVI. 
Hast each man to his command, and some that loves me dispatch that wretch out of the world, lest he should glory in our ruin.  1. SOVL. 
Ile undertake it Sir.  GVI. 
Thanks soldier.  Ex. omnes. Enter ARVIRAGUS and four Captaines. AR. 
Now, my brave friends, wee are come unto the place, where, if our hearts, and hands bee strong and valiant, the labour we have taken this night, passing these craggy mountaines, shall find reward; riches, and glory, the mead of souldiers. Cleanthus, and his troope, have from the Rock performed their part, entred disorder, and amazement in the camp, the harbinger of ruin to them, to us of victory. Let us not lose so faire advantage, charge home, my Country-men; for my part, with my troope, Ile pierce the army thorough, and charge the Prince; strike terror in their souls by our first act, and ever after they will fly like sheep before us. Ye powers,  
We not presume this of ourselves, make you it known,  
The cause of the oppressed is still your own.  Enter one of the Princes Captaines, and soldier. CAP. 
There's no resistance can bee made, th' Souldiers fly like sheep before th' wolf; what should wee do but yield, and save our lives? besides, the justice of his cause is such th' heavens takes part with him.  Exit. Enter ARVIRAGUS, SINATUS, CLEANTES, and others. AR. 
O my dear friend, now is my victory complete, that I have power to recompense in part, the many services that you have done me: from whom did you receive this wound?  SINATUS. 
From one that gave a deeper to my heart, by his unkindness.  AR. 
Whose cursed hand?  SIN. 
The Prince Guimantes, that now hath paid too dearly for his rashness; I hear he is your prisoner, pray let him be nobly used.  AR. 
Else it shall be your fault; for to your charge I will commit him.  SINATUS. 
To mine? I am his subject, and fellow prisoner.  AR. 
But ye are my friend, I dare trust you with my life, and more, with my prisoner.  SIN. 
I shall do what becomes me, if ye commit him to my care.  AR. 
Bring in the Prince.  Enter GUIMANTES. GUI. 
Art thou alive, false traitor, to glory in my disgrace?  AR. 
Me Lord, he's your servant, and to his care I do commit your person.  GUI. 
I rather would be prisoner to a fury.  AR. 
he's Philicia's brother, and cannot be too nobly used: see th' camp be well fortified, the watch carefully set, th' evening draws on apace— Sinatus, command as freely, as ourself, and let your charge find all fit liberty.  Arviragus, and Sinatus whisper. Enter a MESSENGER. MES. 
Most gracious Prince.  AR. 
From whence those letters?—  reads. MES. 
From Pictland, Sir.  AR. 
Come here; is Eugenius, and Guiderius, as I here am informed, revolted?  MES. 
Most certain true.  AR. 
Upon thy life let to man know this greatest of misfortune,' twud discourage all my souldiers; whether is virtue fled? wait on us, and I will dispatch ye back immediately, we have no need of new supplies, wee are strong enough to meet a foe more daring.  Exit. GVI. 
Now Sir, dare you yet boast your innocency? what is 't could make you thus respected, but that ye confederate with him in his treasons? Say, be plain, are ye appointed this night to murder me? if so, do't but manly, take me not in sleep, that I may see my danger, and Ile thank thee; for to believe less is intended me, yet thou appointed for my guard, were madness: I know thy wounds yet smarts, revenge't, and strike home, for since I am dishonoured in my first attempt, thus beaten by a handful, and I Commander often times as many, life is to me no other thing than a burden.  SIN. 
It seems ye gathered from our whispering, what my Commission was, and I am glad I find you so prepared for death; you see this arm, the blood ye drew must be requited, to kill a Prince is brave, an action of a transcendent strain; by all that's sacred I glory more in this occasion, than all that ever yet befell me, that I have power to set my princes son at liberty, tho with my own most certain ruin.  GUI. 
Speak, what dost thou mean by this?  SIN. 
To set you free, or else my hopes deceive me.  GVI. 
Thou dost amaze me, I know this can be nothing but dissimulation; some witty cruelty, to free me from my discontent, and then to kill me when my hopes are raised.  SIN. 
Me Lord, I grieve your soul's so-fram'd, you cannot better apprehended the glory of th'action I perform, and in reward of what I do, be so good to yourself, as I will show myself a faithful subject in spite of all your injuries.  GVI. 
Shall I believe this real?  SIN. 
Me Lord ye may.  GVI. 
could I believe thou didst intend this, yet where's the means for my escape?  GVI. 
covered with night, and clothed in th' habit of one of my servants, ye may escape to Stamfoard, there ye are secure:  GVI. 
I scarcely can give faith thou meanest well.  SIN. 
How hardly can ill men believe the good,  
Which their corrupted soul ne're understood?  
The end of the third Act.   
Enter KING, GVIMANTES, ADRASTVS, and others. KING. 
GUIMANTES, now ye find the advantage that experience gives, especially in war; had ye not mistrusted old Sinatus, ye had not been so suddenly surprised into th' ruin of your army, and your own danger; what's past, wee will forget, and now rejoice that you are safe return'd. I must inform you how I did withdraw Eugenius, what the allurements were, assurance of a double marriage betwixt our children, that you should mary with his daughter; his son Guiderius with your sister, and that he should be King of Picts, but paying tribute to yourself, and successors; upon these hopes he's come, your task is easy, onely make love to a faire Lady, which if ye like, ye may enjoy; if not, there may be means to break the match; at first however show yourself a passionate lover, and pay all the respects ye can imagine, to the father, who wee immediately will sand to war against our enemy, fierce Arviragus, where let them ruin one the other.  GUI. 
But how, Sir, dare you trust him, being so near a kin to Arviragus your enemy, least they should reconcile, and join against you, or that indeed this his revolt is only policy?  KING. 
Are not his son and daughter in my power? it is impossible he should abandon them unto my rage.  GUI. 
I am instructed, and henceforth shall obey your wise counsel, tempering my fears, and rugged nature.  KING. 
Thou dost rejoice me now:  
learn to dissemble soon; 'tis an art,  
Without which, Kings ne're truly act their part.  Enter EUGENIUS, and GUIDERIUS, and others. 
Noble Eugenius, my brother I must call thee, fellow in arms besides, for many a dangerous skirmish have we been together.  EUG. 
Your majesty much honours me in the remembrance.  KING. 
But now Eugenius th' youths grow arrogant, contemn the aged, and experienced soldier, trust upon strength and fortune, without discipline; and, for a while, in some it hath prospered, to my grief; nor was't a wonder, where their opposite was rash, and heady like themselves; but now when Arviragus shall perceive Eugenius comes against him, Eugenius, without whom he scarcely ever yet performed an act considerable; both he and his will be abashd, as knowing they have now to deal with one of courage equal, and experience far abov● them  EUG. 
Most royal Sir, I dare not promise victory, or slight an enemy so daring, whose souldiers are confirmed in conquest: but if I do not take the Garland from his brow, armed in the justice of your cause, which hath enlightened me to see my error, the wreathe of death shall circled mine. In ten set battles, skirmishes not to bee numbered, I have had an active place, and been consisiderable to th' enemy, in six of these bore the supreme command; in all which, victory still smiled upon me, nor do I fear her present frown, for I will court her in the noblest way, perhaps cause a divorce 'twixt her, and Arviragus, to whom of late the world holds her wed.  GUI. 
No hand, my noble father, so I am proud to call you, can be so fit to separate fortune, and Arviragus, as yours that joined them, and if she yet can see true merit, or that th Gods, as it hath oft been said, forsake not brave endeavours, then I( now yours) so without envy shall have my stains wiped off, and prove an ample sharer in your glories.  EVG. 
The honour I receive from all, must raise Eugenius to to do something above himself; I long Sir, till I be in action.  KING. 
necessity enforces that which you desire, and all things do attend you; these Captains which I here present you, are such as ye may boldly trust, men well experienced, and full of courage.  EVG. 
We shall be proud of such, and move by their advice.  CAP. 
Me Lord, our greatest ambition shall bee to execute what you command, as knowing you a Master in th' art.  EVG. 
Sir, I do present you with this maid, dear to me, next my honour, more then my life; my son, me Lord, I leave to● you, my wife I had brought to, but that a sudden sickness hindered: h●re ye have all my wealth, what I possess besides, your royal favours have taught me to contemn as things below my present hopes, this good sword, and your kingly promise is the stock on which I build my future happiness.  KING. 
This Lady, were she not deere to me from the consideration of my son, yet hath her own perfections power to make all places blessed where shee remains.  GUI. 
And for my charge, what can be dearer to me, than he that is to mary with my sister, and whose acquaintance formerly hath made that nearness an addition to my joys.  EVG. 
'twere Sir, in us presumption not to be o'ercome, where you intend to conquer by your courtesy; where the gods mean most to magnify themselves, they choose mean subjects to work by, least they should seem to share their glory: so you, my Lord, by gracing us unworthy, need no ways apprehended your bounty should be censured as reward due to our merit: but that I may in act, the souldiers compliment express my thanks. I take leave to kiss your royal hand.  KING. 
Brother, you injure me in this, for tho you honor me to be my general, let the world know your merit, and my love create you Prince of Pictland, in that quality. I shall esteem you.  EVG. 
Most royal Sir, if my sword hold his temper I shal make good upon my enemies crest, that you have only power to give this title.  GVID. 
Sir, let me crave your blessing, since you seem you have determined I should not bear you company.  EUG. 
Th' heavens preserve you; O my sweet Artemia, thou makest me shane myself, and bear thee company, no more, my dearest child, tears  shed at parting bode misfortune; me Lord, you see this tenderness.  GUI. 
And love it Sir, yet hope to dry them up from th' assurance of my faithful service.  EVG. 
Me Lord, unto your noble love I do commend her, that modest innocence that nature hath bestowed, is all her ornament; she wants th' usual arts of Court to set her of.  CVI. 
In which shee's more beautiful than art can make her: nothing can give addition to the lily, or the Rose, their native colour and their sweetness gives their value; art takes away from their perfection, as all praise must from her, who is above it.  GVID. 
May my father conquer as fast in war, as your civility must do in peace.  KING. 
Our wishes, and our prayers shall attend you.  Ex. omnes at several doors, the Prince leads Artemia. Enter PHILICIA, and LADY. LADY. 
Madam, Prince Guiderins, your servant, those honours now the King confers upon him, desires to kiss your hand.  PHI. 
Ah me! there was a comfort once, but now he's false, or else he would have forsook his traitor father, and fled to Arviragus: were I a man, I would not long remain here, where I am prest each minute to the soul with slanders, and with curses that I hear pronounced against the man I love: Prince Guiderius my servant say ye?  LADY. 
Yes Madam, so the King desires all should esteem him.  PHI. 
Bring him in,— how can a look upon me, or which way open his lips to such an end as love? I would not see him, but that 'twill breed suspicion in my father, since formerly I ever used him with much freedom.  Enter GUIDERIUS. GUID. 
With such devotion, as superstitious Moores salute the light, do I behold those glorious eyes, wanting whose happy influence, perpetual night hath dwelled about me. Tho day break, 'tis in clouds, a sullen morn, if I be not mistaken;( O would I were) can so faire brows threaten a storm? or your clear eyes dart forth such killing scorns? yet I have armor to preserve me against these; belief, that I am innocent from guilt, a soul more yours than ever.— Not speak, if you indeed desire to make my sudden death a witness of your power, it is the office of your tongue to perfect it, showing where I am guilty of a crime against your sacred self, and I shall quickly cease to have a being, rather one so miserable.— Not yet?— 'tis true, if in myself considered, I am not worthy you should speak to me, yet free me from amazement, and let me know how you have lost that ornament of courtesy, that does so well become you, and all other ladies.  PHI. 
'twas not my want of courtesy so much as knowledge, who I was to speak to made me silent.  GV. 
Am I so miserable to be thought a stranger to you?  PH. 
Are ye not so unto yourself? ye were Guiderius, friend to me, and Arviragus; now I am  told ye are a Prince, son to a traitor.  GV. 
Madam, I must believe you cannot think him such, that is a friend, and servant to your father; and for that honour is conferred by him on me, I must confess I glory in their acquisition, or being raised to such a height, as I am only dazzled by your beauties, not your birth, which distance till this present, in my tortured bosom, smothered a fire, the smoke scarcely appearing; by which restraint it now shall break so gloriously forth, that all flames else shall show but faint, and sickly if compared.  PH. 
Better obscure it still, the light of it will only show th' owners impudence, and falsehood.  gum. 
If it express truth, and respect to you, even falsehood to all others will show glorious.  PH. 
Who shall reward that truth? there's none but  
fools undertake actions without hope of  
recompense.  gum. 
The glory of my sufferings will prove reward, since 'tis for one so excellent.  PHI. 
And be assured that it shall be my only study to make them real.  GV. 
And I shall thank ye even for that; fortune does wrong my love to give me th' advantage of your fathers liking, nor will time permit my desert by suffering to obtain; I would not have ye mine,▪ till I had won your soul without all aids, spite of your cruel resolution; for when ye shall consider my love bears date from the first minute that I saw you; and that, when I believed it was to make you happy, I yielded my assistance to another; you cannot but find some remorse, some sense of what I suffered, when Arviragus, for whose sake you think I am to be contemnd, owes you for thousand joys, which he can never pay, nor sure does he intend it; for would he else make war upon your father, seek his destruction, that preserved his life, and had within few daies seated him on his fathers throne.  PHI. 
O ye powers!  GVID. 
But he, carried away with mad ambition, and ingratitude, perhaps inconstancy, as now contemning what he did possess, comes on towards this City, threatening destruction to the State, and in that general, yours: for grant he loves ye, it is hard to think, yet may some rude hand, if he take the City, injure your person, and he not able to revenge it; true love would bee more timorous, and less consider his own advantage.  PH. 
Where didst thou gather all this venom? not in Pictland, sure the masters virtue purges that, yet was it poisonous till thy father left it: but here, this Court, the mint of mischief, where slander, and ingratitude bear sway; 'twas here thou learnd'st with an affronted brow to spot th' innocent, and cleanse the guilty, but never more dare to approach this place, to touch my ear with any sound to th' disgrace of Arviragus; or if I have no power to bar thee, know that his virtues have so charmed my heart, that all and every sense shall become useless, or stand suspected as traytors to my peace, that shall convey ought to his prejudice.  GUID. 
But Madam.  PHI. 
prithee speak not to me, thou art a creature so unworthy, that I am sick to look on thee, a living sepulchre th' art, in which is butted a virtuous youth, that I once loved, but now there's nought but filth, and rottenness of soul.  GUI. 
Lady, I am not such unto your father, nor( were you wise) should I appear to you so hateful.  PHI. 
I am indeed a fool to move him thus, should he discover to my father my affection to Arviragus, I have been too rash; shall I believe it was possible you could assist another, yet love yourself?  GUID. 
Ha, I do not like that question.  PHI. 
'tis true, I ever did observe my company was grateful to you, but sure it was not love did cause it.  GUID. 
look on your own perfections, and from thence receive assurance.  PHI. 
I must believe them without force, else why should Arviragus prove unconstant? but sure he is not such, pray leave me; you have put such troubles in my mind no art can free me from.  GUID. 
Nor me from thinking all your sex is false.  PHI. 
Why do ye stay? an other time, perhaps, your company will not displease me.  GVID. 
O Arviragus!  PHI. 
Ha, that sigh was well dissembled, or it shewed a real passion either to him, or me; you are sad Sir.  GUID. 
Pardon me Madam.  PHI. 
Trust me ye are, and I must share, what e're I seem, I am not made of marble.  GVID. 
Rather of ye; how would a real passion melt this Lady? perhaps not move her, falsehood from sympathy rather begets a liking.  PHI. 
Gentle Guiderius, for such I now again believe thee, tell me the cause of this so sudden change; thou showest more sadness now, that I am kind, than when I was most harsh.  GVID. 
Madam, ye are deceived, I am transported with a joy you under stand not.  PHI. 
Ile swear I understand it not, if this be joy;  
Sure he hath all this time dissembled, prithee be  
Still thus sad, and I will fancy to myself a  
Cause that will delight me much.  GVID. 
What is it madam?  PHI. 
That I durst name it.  GVI. 
Madam, ye may.  PH. 
First promise faithfully to answer me one question I shall ask.  GUI. 
By th' gods I will, so ye will answer me another with like truth.  PH. 
I vow to do it.  GUI. 
speak then.  PH. 
I ask you whom of all creatures ye love best?  GUI. 
I did not look for this, pray ask some other, this you know already.  PH. 
Take heed of perjury, Ile no other question.  GUID. 
Then know I never did, nor ever shall love any crealike Prince Arviragus.  PH. 
'tis plain, he but dissembled, it seems ye love not me then?  GVID. 
Nor do I wish you should do me, your love is too  
Unconstant to be a blessing unto any; but who  
Is't that shall next be made unhappy by your  
falsehood?  PH. 
None, since I never loved, or can any, but Arviragus, to this the gods are witness: I see wee have dissembled both, and virtue was the motive; but why should you mistrust my faith?  GUID. 
To take a trial of my own, for truth is Madam, I did ●ove you with some passion, and often have been promp●ed from my natural inclination, but virtue, and my ●riendship to Prince Arviragus hath still o'ercome, and I ● now ever shall, for if you prove unconstant, ye grow unworthy his affection, and consequently th'adoration which I pay you.  PH. 
virtue in thee Guiderius shines so bright,  
That even loves fire shows a less glorious light.  Ex Enter GUIMANTES, and ARTEMIA. GUI. 
Fairest Mistris, can it bee possible ye are so ignorant of love, yet have such power to beget love in all that see you?  ART. 
Beget love? Ye are the first that ever  told me so, what is he like? I would fain see my child; is he like Venus son? I saw him in a picture once, that lad had bow, and arrows.  GVI. 
But none that pierce hearts thorough, like those darts shot from your eyes.  ART. 
Mine, sure I have none, I feel not any thing within my eye.  GVI. 
You may your cruel scorns, if ye will see my heart.  ART. 
'twere treason to desire it Sir, your heart?  GVI. 
Treason to love ye now commit, to be thus scornful.  ART. 
Treason to love? what is my son my King? I thought I might have whipped him, Venus did so, I well remember.  GVI. 
Never, but when a did mistake his mark, and  
Wound her, I hope he hath not served you so;  
There's no Adonis you dote on? and yet I fear it.  ART. 
I cannot tell what was Adonis.  GVI. 
He was a young and handsome forr●ster.  ART. 
He was not like your highnesse then.  GVI. 
I dare not say so, having called him handsome.  ART. 
I see your highnesse is a friend to truth.  GVI. 
Tho not in handsomeness, in youth I might be like him▪ but not in his conditions: for the allurements of a Goddesse could not make him love, and I in spite of all you● scorns am wholly yours.  ART. 
And what will that oblige me to?  GUI. 
If ye be grateful, it will kindle in your heart an equal fire.  ART▪ 
But of what fuel?  GVI. 
Of Love.  ARTE. 
Of love? alas then I shall be a murtheresse and burn my son.  GUI. 
Take heed that by this seeing ignorance, ye do not murder my respects, and your own happiness: I am no common wooer, Lady it will be hard for you to find one better worth th' entertaining.  ARTE. 
It will be no loss Sir, since I would not entertain at all.  GUI. 
I can not think ye are already stored, your father durst not so abuse me.  ARTE. 
I do believe it, but Sir, I am a Goddesse, at least you styled me so, vowed that ye would be wholly mine spite of all my scorns; and trust me I will put it to the trial, your title of a Prince must not debar me the privilege of a Mistris, for by the gods my father, you, nor any living, shall make me mary but one, of whose affection I will have sufficient trial.  GUID. 
And how is that trial to be made?  ARTE. 
By time, and what task, I shall please to impose upon him.  GUID. 
But how if th' affairs of state will not permit it?  ARTE. 
The powers command it that must give the blessing to each marriage: most daughters now adays are made a sacrifice to wealth, or ends yet; still the hypocrite Father ptetends the Childrens happiness is that he aims at chiefly. Pardon, me Lord, my freedom, if either you, or I had been deformed, yet wee had proved the cement to our fathers love; reason of State had been our ruin, I hope a better fate attends us, and that wee may know each the other in the noblest part, the mind, I am resolved one year to bee your Mistris, or by th' gods never your wife; nor do I promise when that year is past, mistake me not,  
For what we are assured we shall possess,  
That knowledge ever makes the purchase less.  Exit. alone. Enter KING, and ADRASTUS. KING. 
Most certainly she loves him, which if she do, may all the curse of a father cea●e her.  AD. 
I dare not say she does, yet ever since that night Arviragus.—  KING. 
No more, call her in, and hear me, let the Prince be sent for strait.—  Exit Adrastus. Enter GUIDERIUS, and PHILJCJA, whisper together. 
Daughter, good morrow; J see Guiderius you wait close on your Mistris.  GVID. 
' ● is so great a blessing to be near her, that I adventure to be unportunate.  KING. 
I hope she cannot think ye so— Guimanthes, where's your faire Mistris?  GVI. 
I came now from her, shee's indeed a Mistris, and wonot quit that title for a year.  KING. 
How? will she not mary sooner, if we shall desire it?  GUI. 
By no means Sir, she hath vowed the contrary.  KING. 
And she may keep it, if you please, not otherwise, do ye love her much?  GVI. 
Much, for a mistris, Sir, she's too emperious for a wife, but happily she's not what she seems.  KING. 
'tis odds no woman is, they are not things to place our joys upon,— they are above a Prince that would desire to govern wisely, good play-fellowes sometimes, when we are idle:  A horn blown▪ 
go some, and know the news 'tis from the camp for certain; be favourable ye Saxon gods—  Exit Adrastus. Enter Adrastus, and a captain. 
speak, how fares Eugenius, our worthy brother?  CAP. 
As he was wont, when in the field victory sits on his Crest.  PH. 
Ah me! what are my fears for Arviragus?  KING. 
Relate the manner of the battle.  CAP. 
In brief I shall; small odds could be perceived, either in place, or number, only the justice of our cause made us first offer battle, which they accepting, carcases soon strowed the fi●lds, death had a plenteous harvest in an instant, and the great reaper was fierce Arviragus, which once perceived by your great general, who oft had been a witness of his brutish force, but want of temper; commanded they should sound retreat, so to eng●ge his fiery enemy further within his troops: th' effect answered his expectation.  PHI. 
Oh!  CAP. 
For Arviragus with some others round enclosed by a choice company prepared for the design, was beaten from his horse, and pear●'d thorough with so many wounds that scarce his body could be known after th' victory, which quickly was by us obtained, their general once lost, in whom it seems their rebel courage lay.  KING. 
look to my daughte●, sure shee's not well, what did they with th' traitors body?  CAP. 
The souldiers tore it piecemeal, in revenge of all their kindreds blood that had been spilled, only his head with much a do was saved to set upon the City gates, to frig ●t all traytors from the like attempts.  GUI. 
look to my sister, she swounds.  KING. 
Upon your life none stir to help her, may shee n●'re wake again; then Arviragus she's by far a greater traitor: would our so great a preservation touch her thus to th' quick else? come from her, gentle youth, she's not worthy of our love, or pity; degenerat bastard! Ye powers, grant that her soul be now entering th' infernal bark; but I am merciful to wish her dead.  
return thou fleeting spirit, and in this loathed carcase longer dwell:  
My anger shall inflict torments on earth, above the pains of hell.  
The end of the fourth Act.   
Enter SINATVS, and a LORD. SIN: 
O Arviragus, how most unhappy that I was not born thy subject! it had been more content to me, if thou hadst tane my life, forfeated to thy Justice, than in this liberty; thy Army is a heaven, this Court a hell for virtuous men: what a could welcome have I found, for all my faithful service? th' Prince Guimanthes scarcely thanking me for his deliverance.  LORD. 
cousin, me thought the King did express much joy t● see you.  SIN. 
'tis true, but he hath many cares upon him, indeed is scarce himself, seems to bee now what his son was, governed by passion.  LORD. 
O the discovery of his daughter's love to Arviragus made him almost mad; but who can blame her for a love so noble as he, th bravest man alive?  SIN. 
'tis true but he's an enemy to our State, and that considering, h'expression of her father's anger is most just; Princes are born not for themselves alone, but for their countries good.  LORD. 
But tho their blood bee royal, it cannot hinder them from human passions, and that's no love that reason can confine; but here in Philicia to Arviragus, reason must seem to be the ground of love, and so from him to her: I wonder it could be so long concealed from the King, me thought it was impossible it should be otherways; but to say truth, it was a pretty policy th' King used to know the certainty, by that terrible description of Arviragus death, and by that messenger that then was come from the camp, so to avoid suspicion of a plot.  SIN. 
'tis true, their policy was good, but, like a jealous husband, th' assurance of his fears proves an increase unto his torment.  Enter KING. LORD. 
Peace, here's the King much troubled in his looks, I hope that messenger, and letter are contrary to that description he made his daughter.  KING. 
Fled, defeated, utterly defeated, my best men slain, and the rest routed— Can ye yet add affliction, envious Powers, my glass so near run out? must I now stand a but for your fierce wrath? your glory had been more had ye begun the quarrel sooner; ye know grave hairs on bending to th' grave will shane your opposition.  Enter GUIMANTES. SIN. 
O Sir, take heed, th' gods are infinite in all their attributes, only whilst we repined, or murmur they can show no mercy for any.  KING. 
Nor do I hope( pious fool) let them bee lookers on, impartial unto either, and in the field Ile tug for victory with this fierce Arviragus, whose very looks turns Lions into Hares,— but Eugenius was of a bastard race, not of the Kingly breed, else he had died, e're turned his back: that maxim falls, tho held by most, that he can ever make a better captain that hath lost a battle, than he who never saw misfortune; 'twas only an excuse cowards invented, and th' general world subject to that disease, now passes it for currant: to me there's no third; brave death, or victory onely becomes a general, the glorious sun should never see my face, had I once turned my back upon the foe.  GUI. 
Tho this opinion Sir, seems to include within the coward number me, your son, as having lost a battle, with this your late instruction; grant new power, and I shall with my hearts best blood, or our proud enemies, wash off my stain, and witness to th' world m belief of this your man like precept.  KING. 
Thou didst not fly Guimantes, 'tis that for which I tax Eugenius that traitor who shall pay for't; in our despite we may bee made a prisoner, death like a coy Mistris, will not sometimes embrace, altho she seem within our power; and for thy suit again to bee our general, our Honour does forbid it; now Arviragus is grown up worthy the hazard of our famed, our person, and it would show fear more then wisdom, ●to sand, a substitute. No, wee will meet, young man, thou hadst thy spring of honour, even under my command, since ripened fat by frequent Victories, and now that thou art grown to a wealthy autumn, ready to reap the fruit of all thy labours; I, since thou provest ungrate, come like a forward winter to destroy thee, and thy seeming glories. Adrastus, and Sinatus wait our commands.  Exit King, Adrastus, and Sinatus. GUI. 
And I, since now I cannot fear Eugenius revenge, by faire means, or by force will this night have my pleasure of his scornful daughter Artemia.  Ex. Enter ARVIRAGUS, and CLEANTHUS, as in the Army. AR. 
Cleanthus, what's thy opinion? did Eugenius escape with life out of the Battle?  CLEA. 
I think a could not, but your highnesse can give best account of him.  AR. 
True, of his valour, but not safety; my body once buckled under his strong arm; 'twas well I had a better horse, whose strength did much avail, he made his way up to me thorough his fainting troops, wo●d me to the encounter, with such an admirable bravery, that honor thrust me forth to meet him, like an eager lover; and tho I then cursed in my soul his troops, and mine that partend us; yet now I bless th' occasion, for at the best I should have taken life from him, whose valour, and wisdom oft hath been the chief security of mine.  CLEA. 
It had been happy for him to have died with those wounds that you only gave him, and sure their nature, and their number were sufficient to dispatch him, some being in the head, and face: he looked as if he had been bathed in blood.  AR. 
It was not all his own, we once did close, and from this arm issued a stream; and now the heart of angers past, unto my fancy, he appears most lovely in that souldiers dress: had an angel  told me he and I could ever have embraced to such a bloody purpose, I should have given no faith, but thought it some deluding spirit sent to beget division in our then esteemed most perfect friendship. Ambition, thou airely sin, thou mad'st that double separation in Eugenius, first from his virtue, then from me his Prince and friend: but Oh his son! I will not think upon Guiderius, least it should strike me with a general numbness, force all my blood retire unto my heart, to guard it from the stroke of his unkindness.  CLEA. 
Why Sir, do ye afflict yourself for those, who no ways do deserve your thought, but how to punish their base falsehood?  AR. 
Which I will put in act, thou dost awake justice within my soul; now wee are within a dayes march of the head City,  
Where I will either gain what I desire,  
Or in so glorious an attempt expire.  Ex. Enter KING, ADRASTUS, SINATUS, CRATUS, and others. KING. 
Adrastus, thou art my confidence, in thee is my chief hope, put now in act with speed what we concluded of touching the knowledge of my life, and fortune, in this present war; use thy best diligence: I have sent a Herald to desire an interview with Arviragus, all to gain time till they return, fly my best servant.  ADR. 
Most happy when your Majesty employs me.  Exit Adrastus, and Cratus. Enter a LORD. LORD. 
If it please your majesty, Eugenius is arrived, and craves adm●ttance to your presence.  KING. 
Fetch in that boaster, but how? without a triumph? O by no means, attend him Lords, he was a Prince, but now appears a slave by his base cowardice.  Enter EUGENIUS mocked by them. EVG. 
I am amas'd, altho my fortune do not deserve this seeming adoration should bee real, yet no ways am I conscious, that any action I have done deserves it as a scorn.  KING. 
O my Lord, do not believe't, what, put these scorns upon the great Eugenins, that famous captain, who sure hath brought in bonds fierce Arvirugus, or left him breathless in the field? if prisoner, bring him in, wee long to see him how his looks are changed; no, then he's dead, and in him all our dangers perish; we know our Princely brother would be th' Master of his words, either to pluck the wreathe of victory from Arviragus brow, or death should circled his.  EVG. 
And so it should, ungrateful Prince, had I been seconded by those you gave me for assistance; no man I brought from Pictland, but his blood manures th' unhappy ground; he fought on for me, these wounds were such as I exchanged with Arviragus hand to hand, in sight of whom, no one of yours durst follow me; I was betrayed with mine, and left a prey to the insulting foe.  KING. 
No coward ever yet wanted excuse, to lay the fault on others, but rather I believe it was a plot laid by our politic enemy, and thy false self, so to destroy our forces, or else why didst thou charge, our Captaines not consenting at that time?  EVG. 
Their coward souls made them move on with a snailepace in my despite, whilst Arviragus took in towns, rifled the Country; and had he past the river, after him broken down one bridge, he must have taken the second City of your kingdom past all resistance.  KING. 
And now what hinders him?  EVG. 
Our best endeavour is a faire excuse, Jove gives the victory to whom he pleaseth.  KING. 
And I who stand as Jove in power, pronounce thy actions treasons to th' state, for which thy head shall answer; I was a fo●le to think so near a kinsman to my enemy, could e're mean faithfully to me. Strike off his head immediately, he that unto his friend was false to gain a crown, would be to me so, for advantage.  SINATUS. 
O my Lord, if from success you judge mens actions, there's none but mad-men will undertake to fight your battles; in this you take away the hope of ever gaining from your enemy Captain or Souldiers.  KING. 
Well for thy sake Sinatus he shall live, but hence forth we profess nee're to employ a stranger, in our wars: nor can that Prince be wise, that does so if he have able Captaines of his own. Which we, thanks be to heaven, do no ways want, such of whose loves, judgement, and valour, we are confident.  2 LORD. 
We all Sir, shall believe ourselves most happy to spend our best bloods in your service.  KING. 
And in that confidence we are resolved to charge our foe, nor suffer th' disgrace to be besieged in our chief City— for you Eugenius the death be your desert, we pardon your offence, and will allow a pension to maintain you; and your children.  Exit KING, and others. Manet Eugenius. EUG. 
O miserable Eugenius! where breaths a man so wretched? but I deserve all this and more; why do I live to suffer such affronts? I should have strooke the Tyrant dead in midst of all his scorns: I had a soul once would have enforced me to th' attempt, but thou hast lost thyself fond man; guilt makes thee base, I forfeited my courage when I lost my virtue.  Enter one. 
What the great Prince of Pictland all alone, and discontented— please your Highnesse command your vassal any service.  EUG. 
I understand your scorn Sir, and am afflicted with it; having your end pray leave me, lest I be moved to do something that may content me too.  1. 
Your Highnesse pardon, I conceive ye would be private to consider how to dispose your prisoners. Eug. Slave.  Exit. Enter two. 1. 
If it may no ways be offensive to your Highnesse, we would desire to know when the double marriage shall be solemnis'd between the Kings children, and yours.  2. 
Sure your Daughter will bring us warlike Princes, and fortunate like you their noble gran-sire.  EUG. 
Are they not set a purpose to stir me to some violent act, on which the tyrant means to take advantage?  1. 
Me Lord, I have some skill in making pageants, dare undertake to please th' people, much please you that I may have employment in the triumph?  EUG. 
By all means Sir, you shall.  1. 
And Sir, I hope.  EUG. 
You may Sir, hope any thing so you'l leave me.  1. 
O me Lord.  EUG. 
else I shall pay ye e're you undertake your work.  BOTH. 
We go Sir.  Ex. EUG. 
If I be more oppressed with such as these, were it before th' tyrants face, I shall revenge myself; but heer's the Prince, sure he's not like the rest— Sir I presume.  gum. 
'tis true ye do so.  EUG. 
Why do you not know me Sir?  gum. 
Yes, and would have ye know your distance a runagate, I will not call thee traitor, should not approach th' person of a Prince uncal'd.  Exit. EUG. 
Can I yet suffer? sure I am Planet-strooke, here had been a subject worth my anger, I'll after and sacrifice him to my enjuries— stay— what wodst th' do, by a rash act, forfeit thy childrens lives? perhaps there useage yet is noble; they have not proved unfortunate in war, ther's no treason nor no armies loss laid to their charge.  Enter ARTEMIA, in disorder. 
Who's this, my Daughter Artemia?  AR. 
Even she your most unhappy, and most injured child.  gum. 
speak my Artemia! meanest thou in my affronts or personal injuries to thee?  AR. 
O Sit, the vicious Prince?  EU. 
No more, a little pause, until I muster up my much enfeebled spirits. I find I nee're shall be the master of a rational soul, nor know the proper time for action; but rage shall supply all my defects of judgement: speak; thou dost already plainly to my fears, the lustful Prince hath forced thee, speak and free me from all my miseries at once, for I know I shall no longer grieve, why art thou slow to rid. me from my suffering— say, art thou ravished? I see thou fearest to kill thy father, be not deceived, if it be so, it only will convert my sorrows into rage, and I shall live until I take revenge.  ART. 
I shane to speak what I have suffered, tho yet a maid, this knife was my protection.  EVG. 
Think not thy feeble arm had power, it was the gods, my child, the base attempt calls for revenge; but how? alas I have not power, nor my sword is left me yet; but where's the means to use it? I lost an opportunity, that I would give this hand I could call back; I might have killed Guimantes in height of all his scorns, but now—  lies down. Enter GVIDERIUS. GUI. 
O, my dear father, how I joy to see you!  EUG. 
Thou canst not sure Guiderius joy to see me, to see me thus at least; the universal eye that views the sons of men, does not behold one near so wretched.  GUID. 
And t's that present misery in which I judge you happy, prosperity in unjust undertakings is not a blessing: but I might curse; the gods Sir, would ye bend to them, in an acknowledgement of your offence, would cast an eye of pity in your misery, and sand relief. Rise, and take comfort.  EUG. 
shane to my age, that thou shouldst now become my rutor; you powers, I find your mercy to me in your justice, for whilst my hopes were high, and that I prospered in my ambitious design, the sin of my ingratitude and false-hood to Arviragus appeared but trivial, tho often urged, ere we left Pictland, by thee my virtuous son, to the full weight, a burden now intolerable: could that bee added to my own mis-fortunes, this instant my heart would break with th' consideration; but 'tis impossible that they should mix my miseries, brought me but to the sight of my offence, and vanished; he that doth truly grieve at sin, joys in the punishment that made him know it.  GVID. 
Come, my d●are sister, now begins our happiness.  Ex▪ omnes. Enter ARRASTUS, and CRATUS. AD. 
Now brother we are at the Cave where th' old beldame lives, and well this uncouth dismal place becomes the company shee keeps, spirits and goblins.  CRA. 
I do confess it looks as if it confined upon hell, but do ye think it possible that she can satisfy the Kings desires, by th' foretelling of his present fate in battle, and his end?  AD. 
The many proofs that shee hath given of her great knowledge, hath made ●er famous through this I land; especially th' King hath cause to trust her prediction, since she foretold his conquest o'er the Picts, and before that, his being King, tho then three brothers stood betwixt him, and the throne: come let's enter.  Enter WITCH. WITCH. 
No, ye shall not need, speak why ye come?  AD. 
do not you know?  WI. 
It matters not, speak or return.  AD. 
Be not so angry, we come from th' King, that honor you, and justly, for your predictions touching him, both hitherto been true and happy.  WI. 
Be brief, or else I leave you; what is't he demands?  ADR. 
The issue of the present war he hath in hand.  WI. 
Is that all?  ADR. 
No, he desires likewise to know, when, and what shall be his end?  WI. 
His army shall the battle gain.  ADR. 
That's good, but what shall be his end?  WI. 
Within few dayes he shall be slain.  AD. 
How? but say by whose hand shall it be?  WI. 
traitor, in thy despite, by thee.  Exit Witch. ADR. 
Out Hag, by me? thou shalt first be burnt, or go to hell quick ere I act such wickedness: sure all th' island hath been cozened in this woman hitherto, or now she dotes, and the devil whom she hath so long commanded makes a fool of her.  CRAT. 
I am sure we should prove such, did we return no other answer to the King, lets in after her and ask some other.  AD. 
Agreed— Fire flashes out of the Cave, and hideous noise. Fly, we shall be torn in pieces else, ther's no forcing of the devil to speak.  Exeunt. Enter two CAPTAINES. 1 CAP. 
I wonder that your Prince will consent to an interview, the crafty tyrant does it only to gain time.  2 CAP. 
'tis well if it be no worse, for my part I fear some treason.  1 CAP. 
That can hardly be, ther's but two upon each side and they are to be searched before th' Princes mee●; the place, a flight-shot from each Army.  2 CAP. 
hark, th' triumph gives warning, they are setting forward.  Exeunt. Enter at one door ARVIRAGVS, and CLEANTHVS▪ at the other the KING, and PHILICIA. AR. 
Ha! do I see clear, the King and Philicia? 'tis she, what face but hers could shoot such rays and wound at distance? take heed fond man this, glorious comet would never thus appear but for thy ruin.  PHI. 
What were my joys to see these eyes again did not my happiness find check from apprehension of my fathers coming?  KING. 
You see, most noble Adviragus we not exceed in number although we vary in th' Sex; our son we did intend to have chosen for our aid, but when we did consider his fierce and choleric nature, apt to make new wounds then salue th' old, we choose to bring our Daughter, equal interest'd in our love, nay crown, for we have to the World made it known, since we have found him disobedient, that she shall share an equal portion of our State.  CLE. 
That net is spread.  KING. 
But this is from our purpose.  AR. 
I must not think so.  KING. 
Tell me brave youth, wherein had I so ill deserved that you could doubt performance of my promise, or did you think my meaning good, but that my sons unequal arrogance frighted me from performance.  AR. 
Great King do not believe I so much should mistake your character, which by the World is easily red, to think you fear your son, a subject by a double ty, no, I must call my injuries your own, actions proceeding from a provident care to enlarge your State, rather to settle by a politic way Pictland yours for ever, which force and tyranny for th' present had made you master of.  KING. 
Had that been my design, why did I save you when a child, and since? added each day new honors, nay would have raised you to a happiness above▪ your hopes in spite of him that envied your felicity, and arrogantly durst oppose a King, and fathers will, his malice might prove useless yet to break our friendship? would you confess that you have erred, nay should you sue for peace, we so much prise your love that you might almost make your own conditions.  CLE. 
Beware Sir, of these flatteries.  AR. 
I must confess Sir, what you have alleged seemed to be done, but well we both do know, you ever, I of late, that there was wanting a real soul unto these seeming kindness●s; your own advantages still moving to what you did, and not my good or glory. Put then the services that I have done you in an equal balance with what I ever did receive, and I am confident, I am noe debtor; and for your aptness to embrace a peace, would I confess my error, be pleased to know I am not ignorant of my advantage in the war, nor in th' justice of my cause: both are so great that scarce can you propose conditions for peace so disadvantageous unto yourself, that honor and wisdom will permit me to accept of; yet that I may declare a thankfulness for th' great confidence you have expressed of my faire meaning by coming armed thus weakly, and that this interview hath some thing in it of no common strain, I hear lay by all my advantages, nay more, oblige myself to stand to such conditions for a peace as this faire Lady, of your part sure, shall think fit to ordain.  KING. 
I see it takes.  PH. 
Me Lord, this is no obligation on my part tho you intend to make it such, for I must either ill requited th' honor, which you do me, or prove myself an unkind Daughter: as yet having embraced no power I likewise do avoid necessity or guilt, my part in this your reconcilement, must be no other then my prayers, and tears which shall be plentiful for the prosperity of both; the' means to which your abler judgements must determine, and not I.  KING. 
Daughter did all that see our persons hear our words, I should commend this your reservednesse, but we both know th' passion of your soul, approve and glory in them, seem not amas'd; what ist Kings cannot know concerning persons so considerable as you are both to me? that very night I found you in th' garden walking, I could have intercepted you my Lord, my son Guimanthes informing me that you were there, and urging me to kill you, which he had done by secret means had I not undertaken it, and formed discourse with my Daughter of that I knew full well, so that you might by that have time to pass away unmarkt by any.  PH. 
Almost this cunning does deceive even me, spite of my knowledge.  KING. 
Those you killed at the Garden-doore, for which the Law would have condemned you, I likewise knew off, but kept it from my son by whom they were set on to murder you: these acts, and his strange insolence have rendered him hateful to me that if you will now lay down Arms, and fairly sue to be received my son in law, her Dowery shall be th' Principality of Pictland, in spite of him, and all that shall oppose it.  CLE. 
Me Lord, this proposition is neither safe nor honourable, let not love ruin you and yours.  AR. 
Thou doe'st awake me. Sir, I have thought, and find, what you propose, honor and reason commands me to refuse: for to receive as dowry with a Wife, what I possess both by a right of blood and conquest; would show defect in judgement, and injure truth, but to express how much I prise this Lady, be she so pleased, here from your hand I will receive her, and ever yield her homage for my crown, life and all my blessings, and to fill up my empty scale, to make the proposition weigh the better in your judgement, I freely will surrender what I possess of your dominions, and serve you with my utmost aid against all enemies that shall invade you.  PH. 
Can my Father refuse this?  KING. 
Honor that does command you to refuse Pictland a dowry with my Daughter, commands me not to grant it other ways, for else it will appear, you force both from me, making my Daughter the salary of peace, nor can I think what ever you pretend, that you yet love her, or she you: true love would o'er come these nice distinctions.  PHI. 
I fear this passion.  KING. 
But since you are such temperate lovers, that when the warrantable joys of Hymen thus temptingly invite ye, will not adventure stretching of a sinew, to reach the fruit, I am resolved never again to prostitute myself unto your scorn devested of my wonted Majesty, no tho my own and the whole kingdoms ruin follows, in which I will secure thy punishment: justice commands that she, who would not seek to save the blood of thousands, perish.  AR. 
Sir, ye are now too passionate, ther's no ground for this great alteration.  KING. 
Nor would I have thee think, young man, these offers do proceed from thy victorious Army: my present Forces equal thine, triple the number of thy victories; make up my famed, and I shall meet thee tho my hairs be gray, wtih the first virgin honor that I won, which still adorns my crest, and shall do till the hand of death sue a divorce, which must be bloodyly disputed.  PH. 
What shall I do?  KING. 
Either accept what I proposed, which was th' utmost honor could permit me, or by to morrow son prepare for battle.  CLEA. 
Accept the battle Sir, there is no trusting him.  KING. 
This seeming passion may prevail, and when I have him once, no ransom shall redeem him.  AR. 
O Honor, why shud'st thou thus oppose my joys I can not either way resolve, nor is it fit I should, she must dispose me whose I am; dearest Philicia lay your command upon me either way, and I shall glory in th' event, although it prove my ruin.  PHI. 
Of which rather then be th' author, I would be struck with thunder, at this present.  AR. 
speak, O speak Philicia! by our love I do conjure ye  PH. 
yield then my dearest Arviragus.  KING. 
he's won.  AR. 
I shall name, but to what?  PHI. 
To what? to what your safety, and your honour shall direct you.  KING. 
Must we prepare for war then? it seems you give the sentence, and delight in blood.  PHI. 
So far Sir, am I from it, that upon my knees I sue to both for peace, but chiefly to th' gods, by whom inspired, I now dare give advice; for three daies let a truce be sworn by either side, in which time all may be considered, more maturely weighed, than on this sudden; Heaven that inspired me with this thought, may settle all your differences, which are not great, at least allow me means of flight.  KING. 
What says Prince Arviragus?  AR. 
I shall most willingly consent, and vow a sacred observation on my part.  KING. 
The like I swear, for I to morrow shall know my fate in Battle, and my end, according to which I shall direct my actions.  AR. 
O that I durst presume to kiss those hands! it would express a fondness prejudicial to us both.  PHI. 
His eyes shot beams of love into my soul; thou gentle power, grant mine an equal force, and let him languish with the wound, feeling no cure, like me, till w● again shall meet.  KING. 
Farewell, my Lord, we'l sand to treat.  Exit King and Ph●licia. AR. 
Most willing— so parts the sun stealing behind a cloud, and shadows up the world in envious night; and day, I fear, will never break so gloriously again: what killing griefs seize my heart from that consideration? how shall I suffer a long, perhaps an everlasting absence, a minutes time yielding this torment? I was too nice for terms of honour; Ile call her father back, and yield him all he can desire. Stay— thou fond man, she seemed to enjoin me the contrary,  
Who is divinely good and wise, obey her will,  
Whose smiles can make thee blessed, whose frowns can kill  Exit. Enter ADRASTUS. AD. 
traitor, in thy despite, by thee— So said the witch, that I should kill the King; 'twas a strange answer, and will appear as strange for me to tell him; there's danger in't— true, if it were the insinuation of another, but when I myself shall tell him; I whom a loves, whom he hath trusted with many bloody secrets,— Secrets, and bloody ones; his character being rightly weighed, reason does tell me, that rather should increase, than lessen fear; to tell him that I do know his secrets, is but to prompt him to his safety, in my ruin, the dead can tell no tales without a miracle; besides all the large promises that he hath made me, in my death are canceled, and he stands free to work another to his end by blasts of air, for such his promises have proved to me— but stay, what should I tell him? what she said? no, rather frame another answer, that will not do, my brother heard it, and who in such a cause dare trust a brother or should the King not like the answer, misdoubt, sand or go himself, or the damned witch inform him by a spirit, what death with torments were I then to look for? I tremble but to think on th', horror invades me every way.  Enter CRATVS. CRA. 
How now brother, what troubles you?  AD. 
What I shall nee're be free from.  Exeunt Ambo. Enter GUIMANTES, and a Lord. gum. 
Me Lord, what is the King my father doing? is he ready yet?  LORD. 
Yea Sir, he hath been talking with Eugenius this half hour.  gum. 
Of what?  LORD. 
Trying to draw out of him by wily circumstances the maner of Arviragus ordering his men in battle, what part he fights in himself, and all questions touching these points.  GV. 
Sure he dotes, will my father trust the counsels of the person of a man so discontented ne'er himself?  LORD. 
For his person he could not hurt the King, unless with his eyes, he hath no weapons, and for his counsels that the King was not obliged to credit more then he found likely, in reason.  gum. 
go see when th' King's at leisure, and bring me word here or in th' gallery.  LO. 
I will Sir.  Exit. gum. 
How tedious is it to expect a crown? how servill? for I am forced to curb my nature, dare not express my hate or love, unless it please my father: thus like a schoolboy, do I spend my best of time my youth, wherein we onely can taste true happiness; had I the sceptre in my hand, I rather would adventure losing it, then any pleasure that my youth desired, whereas my cautelous and wary father scarcely ever yet enjoyed a pleasure worthy of a King, doubt still attend his desires, nere once irregular, so fooling himself out of his joys by being too apprehensive of th' ensuing danger. He truly doth enjoy pleasures that boldly acts sins, and else are only shares in the facts.  Exit. Enter KING, SINATUS, EUGENIUS, ADRASTUS, CRATUS, and others. KING. 
Adrastus most welcome, yet I know not, thou hast something in thy look dismayes me, I fear thy message.  AD. 
ye have no cause, in private ye shall know't.  KING. 
All leave us, Sinatus, and Eugenius only may stay two rooms off, we must have further conference with them anon, but let not any presume to disturb us till we call.  SIN. 
We shall be careful, Sir.  AD. 
Remember what I  told you.  CRA. 
fear not.  KING. 
Now Adrastus we are alone, speak boldly.  AD. 
Sir, I shall.  KING. 
And truly on thy life what e're it be, yet Adrastus thou art to me as fate, and what thou shalt deliver is like the sentence of the gods inevitable, therefore if it tend to ill give me some little pause, that so my spirits recollected I may meet it like a King.  AD. 
Why should ye fear Sir? she you sent me to inquire of did ever yet foretell things happy.  KING. 
'tis true, and thou dost raise me much with that remembrance, speak then and joyful things.  AD. 
My brother Sir, and I according to your Majesties command, found out the Beldames Cave; at the mouth of which she met us, denied us entrance, asked our business and from whom, we  told her all that you desired to know— she answered for th' first your Army▪ should the battle gain.  KING. 
O happy news blessed Adrastus!  AD. 
Not so, for in few dayes you must be slain.  KING. 
Ha! slayn● by whom?  CRATUS draws his sword. AD. 
look back and see?  KING. 
Traytors.  AD. 
And 'tis true, now I am he, and fear in my despite hath made me do't.  KING 
Oh, oh, Treason, traytors.  AD. 
Dispatch, dispatch, so now 'tis don, he's dead and all my fears in him.  CRA. 
We have been too hasty, my soul trembles at the object he was our King.  AD. 
Ha? relenting? this must not be.  CRA. 
O brother your persuasions have made me miserable!  AD. 
Ther's no disputing now, our safety and reward lies in our flight to Arviragus, had we not killed him, we had been sure to have died ourselves.  CRA. 
●t had been better so, then bear the guilt I feel.  AD. 
So conscience take thy wish.  kills him. CRA. 
Oh, villain, traitor.  AD. 
Yes, I am so, but who knows it now?  CRA. 
O th' gods.  AD. 
Ha, what noise was that? I'll shut this door; Eugenius, and Sinatus may have heard my brother or the King when they called out: now can I but pass the port I am secure, that door opens out of this Chamber, towards the gallery, so to the garden, how ever I am past retiring.  Exit. Enter GUIMANTES, 
Come back Adrastus, whether so fast? Why dost thou look so ghastly? where's my Father? speak slave, what ●loud is that upon thy clothes?  AD. 
What shall I say?  GUI. 
speak.  AD. 
O me dear Lord! I am so much amazed, horror tie● up my tongue, your fathers murdered.  GUI. 
Ha, speak that again!  AD. 
Your father's murdered.  GUI. 
By whom?  cic.. 
Eugenius, and Sinatus, whom I have locked in the next room, and in the Kings rescue killed my own brother, who was assistant with them. O see Sir, where your royal master lies stuck full of wounds, would the fa●es had tane my life a sacrifice for his.  GUI. 
This sight doth more amaze then grieve me: call for th' guard, or stay here rather; this Lord altho a coward ever may be an actor in this Tragedy himself, I'll shut him fast.  AD. 
Ha, shut in: what means the Prnce? sure he suspects, 'tis ●o and I am caught in my own ●rain, utterly lost; what death with studied torments shall I suffer? no passage out? O horror to remain here! no living men could more affright me, 'tis pain above what justice can inflict; O conscience, conscience, dead so long, why dost thou quicken now? must I feel hell here▪ in this life?  Enter GVIMANTES, and others. GUI. 
Make sure th' doors th' other way, and rather kill then suffer them to scape.  AD. 
Ther's comfort yet; I fear Sir, they are fled out at the other door, they tried all means to break this open.  GUI. 
Unlocke th' doors, and stand upon your guard, search all.  Exeunt. Enter LORDS. 
Ther's none Sir, in this Chamber, if they be not hide, the further dorre is open.  AD. 
Then they are fled.  Enter a LORD. 
1. where's the Prince?  GVI. 
Here.  ●1. 
Eugenius, and Sinatus sir, are taken by th' guard, as they were passing down into the Court.  Enter EUGENIUS, SINATUS, with a guard, bòund. GVI. 
Villains, what was it that could move you to a dead so horrid? for which, no punishment can be sufficient, and yet assure yourselves to feel above what ever traitor suffered.  SIN. 
I am not so much affrighted, as amazed, nor that so much as grieved to see my master could and bloodlesse; Ad●a●tus there can be a witness of our innocence, who with his brother only entred with the King into this chamber, commanded us to attend till we were called, which we obeied until we heard a tumult in the court, some crying treason, and coming down to know the cause, we were assaulted by th' guard, we made resistance, till we knew the reason of their violence; Sir, this is all that I am guilty of, and I believe him likewise innocent.  GUI. 
So do I too, but for my ends Ile not acknowledge it; bear off these traytors to the Prison, torture shall force them to confess.  EVG. 
No Prince, it shall not, for me, I am not sensible of guilt from any other actions, but those wherein I thought to do thee, and thy father service against the best of men, O Arviragus, heaven doth punish me, now innocent, for I was self to thee.  AD. 
You see, me Lord, the cause that moved them to your fathers murder break forth in their despite, their love to Arviragus.  GUI. 
'tis true Adrastus, nor shall your head stand long upon your shoulders, it only grows till I may cut it off with more advantage for my ends.  1 LORD. 
I scarce can understand this business.  2 LORD. 
I know not what we should believe.  AD. 
look on your fathers wounds, and let that stir ye up to take swift vengeance; how e're they were th' instruments, yet Arviragus gave the motion to their bloody hands. O my dear. Master! shall Arviragus that bold traitor triumph in this ruin?  GUI. 
I would revenge, but how?  AD. 
I am inspired Sir, looking on your fathers wounds. charge th' enemy this night with all your army, they are secure by reason of this truce, let my head pay the forfeit, unless you do the battle gain. For by this hand the king is slain.  GUI. 
I like th' counsel, tho not the giver; my fathers death brings some disorder Lords, but will grow greater, known in our camp.  
And for the truce my father swore, to that I'm free,  
How e're falsehood triumphing shows like policy.  
Take up that royal body, we will  
not only wash thy wounds in tears, an other flood:  
Best fits revenge, a sea of en'mies blood.    

Epilogue.  
OUr Author at the bar of Censure stands,  
Yet fears no hiss, nor hopes no clap of hands;  
The gentler Sex that gives life to his muse,  
Such rude dislikes, or plaudits never use;  
But with a pleased, or discontented eye,  
Can make a Poem live, or Poet die.  
●f these, and who are theirs, in part approve  
This our first Play, the second then may move  
A better liking; for the persons known,  
Their griefs, or joys oft move us, as our own.  
The Author found it so, for having read  
Thus far the story, and a few tears  shed  
With sad Philicia, longed to know the rest,  
Hoping that virtuous lovers must be blessed.  
Now if like passion be stirred up in you,  
He has writ well, so have we acted too.  
Finis.   

Scene britain.  

The KING, an enemy to Arviragus.  
GUIMANTES, the Prince.  
ARVIRAGUS, in love with Philicia.  
EUGENIUS, cousin to Arviragus.  
GUIDERIUS, son to Eugenius.  
SINATUS, Lords,& friends to Arviragus  
CLEANTHES, Lords,& friends to Arviragus  
ADRASTUS, a Lord, an enemy to Arviragus.  
CRATUS, Brother to Adrastus.  
PHILICIA, daughter to the King, and in love with Arviragus.  
ARTEMIA, daughter to Eugenius, in love with Guimantes.  
CARTANDES, queen of the Danes, in love with Arviragus.  
OSWALD, a captain, cousin to Cartandes, in love with Cartandes.  
ALDRED, a Danish captain.  
Courtiers.  
Captains.  
Ladies.  
Souldiers.  
Messengers.  
Murtherers.  
Witch.  
Spirits.    

THE SECOND PART of ARVIRAGUS and PHILICIA.  
Enter Guimantes and Adrastus. Gui. 
THis I confess, by your advice wee broken the Truce and charged the Enemy, obtained the victory, but by that bloody victory were so much weakened, we durst not keep that field we were masters of.  Ad. 
I could not sir fortify by Divination, the coming of the Danish Army; but be not sir cast down, what thoe? they of Scots and Wales, are hasting to your rescue, prompted by general interest against the Dane our common foe.  Gui. 
How know you this? there's no Messengers ar●ived.  Ad. 
But reason, that should ever govern, does assure it; for should the Dane once settle here, those Princes soon would be subdued.  Gui. 
All this is politicly spoke, in the excuse of your pernicious counsel; had wee not broke the Truce, the Enemy so soon discovered to be landed, would have knit all in perfect friendship, then Arviragus had been married to my sister, whose forces joined with mine, and he commanding, victory had been assured against the Danes, he was their fate, where ere he moved against them, to take revenge upon our false-hood, which false-hood had its ground from thee, thou from the Fiends, from whence all false-hood springs  Exit. Ad. 
A does not sure allude unto the Witch, 'tis true, from her I had the counsel which I gave him for the Battle, curse on these Danes, could they stay till I were settled in his favour, at least, until Sinatus and Eugenius were dispacht: ●hu, there is not cause of fear, none but the Witch herself, who must seem accessary, can discover me.  
And for the powers below, they love to see,  
The innocent condemned and guilt set free.  Exit. Enter Philicia and Artemia. Ar. 
Still shall afflictions multiply, is there no end o● sorrows, until there likewise be no sense of joy? hard sta●e of mortals! thus our creation seems vain or unjust.  Phi. 
Artemia, do not thus seek to defeat the Gods of their delight, let them behold in you their greatest master piece, as by reflex their own unb●unded excellence, patience, and fortitude, these jewels never shine, but when they are worn; times of great sorrow, are those uncertain solemn feasts, the powers themselves attendants there, and if wee by our patience relish what they have set before us, they want not power, nor will to turn those bitters into sweet, whilst wee believe that there are Deities, we must believe them just and merciful, so innocence at last shall triumph.  Art. 
madam, what you have said, speaks you indeed divine, and such I ever have esteemed you, but were you mould of the common day with use▪ then you would wish you had near seen the light, or soon to be eclipsed to it: O my unhappy and much injured father, in spite of all their malice wee will die together.  Phi. 
I hope for both a better fate, nor will I rest on hope alone, but use my utmost power, if it be possible, add to your natural artificial beauty, and with your brother Guiderius present yourself before the King, as he goes to the Temple to sacrifice, who knows? his hard heart may be moved to pitty you▪ at least if he from heaven expect it, for himself and State.  Arte. 
madam I shall obey, and for Guiderius, your will gave life to all his actions, but now I fear he is no more.  Phi. 
Ha; oh speak not that again, least you become my comforter, as having griefs above you.  Arte. 
'tis a sad truth, that I must tell you, no sooner did he see the army move, and heard it was to charge Prince Arviragus, but fetching a deep figh, and looking up to heaven, as asking cou●sell there, he strait resolved to sacrifice his life to expiate our fathers fate, the way he's meant to do it, was by giving notice of the Kings design; how almost beyond hope, it is that he should pass both watches, or having past scape, when the King proved victor, I leave to your reason, mine tells me I shall never see him more.  Phi. 
Would I had no reason, 'twas a base wish, would I be freed from sense of suffering, where the cause is such, the danger of two persons so eminent in virtue, to whom my soul is tied, by all the bands of love and honor; what tenderness is this I feel fo● Guiderius? the danger of Arviragus, was, is for ought I know as great; no his strong arm and skill in war will be his guard, unless Mars envi●us of his glory, should take the odds of might to conquer him, but for Guiderius, both unprovided and unpractised, what will become of him in such a bloody and disordered war? but let us hope the best, that virtue and that courage that engaged him in so brave an act of friendship, hath▪ surely brought him off with safety; my prayers now and ever, shall attend him.  Arte. 
madam it was his wish, that when ye came to know what he had undertaken, you would pray▪ for him, and if he perish,  shed one tear, but then forget him, who alive, nor dead: would not with your least trouble, buy the greatest happiness the earth could yield to him.  Exit. Eeter Oswald and a Danish captain. Cap. 
My noble Lord, although the wind set faire, I did not think your ships had been so ready for the Sea, to bring you hith●●, thus soon from denmark, is a most happy passage.  Os. 
My sighs and vows did emulate the wind, and filled my sails, for who could stay behind in peace, having so brave and sweet a Leader to the war? O tell me captain, how the divine Cartandes brooks, the British air, this place and people that she so deadly hates; does not their Genius back return malevolent aspects upon her personal health?  Cap. 
That were enough to eclipse the glory of our hopes, the conquest of this Ile could not be ballast with her loss of health, a day.  Os. 
An hour, a minute, for shee is all that ever yet was excellent in either se●  Cap. 
And equal to such virtue hath her fortune been since she arrived, for they not long since, were glutted with our blood, and sent our last dead sovereign to his grave, with sorrow, for our shameful loss, have now themselves just, as we landed, ruined by a civill strife, our terror( Arviragus) being the chief that did oppose the King, and in the bloody Battle slain, as some report.  Os. 
This is the some of your proceedings, then.  Cap. 
Are they not brave and fortunate, promising a happy issue, which that the God of war may grant, our queen, and Leader, performs a vow she made upon her landing, which was to offer up to Mars, by way of Sacrifice, the first prisoner we should take upon the Ile.  Os. 
It hath been sometimes practised by most warlike Nations.— hark.—  Loud music. Cap. 
'tis th'Queene preparing to the solemnity.  Os. 
There cannot be a better place for me to kiss her royal hand.  Enter Cartandes, two or three L●dyes and Lords. Car. 
cousin Oswall, most welcome, you have been diligent, are all your ships well furnished?  Os. 
Not any thing defective gracious Lady.  Car. 
'tis well, bring forth the prisoners; Arviragus and Guiderius brought forth by two Captaines and Souldiers.  
Mars grant that they be worthy of thee, the blood of cowards will profane thy Altars— their forms are promising, how were they taken? did the manner witness their courage, which was first taken prisoner.  Ald. 
Both at once.  1. Cap. 
Though I shall boast the vigour of this arm, that did subdue the one, and he doubtless the braver man, yet briefly thus, the Battles having joined, and thousand carcases strowing the earth, or ●ather swimming in the sea of blood, of which I must confess I drew no part, I found this Gentleman with his sword drawn, warmed and enraged with former fi●ht, but that I set against his wounds some scratches, so that I count wee m●t on equal terms.  Car. 
Be brief in your most terrible relation.  Cap. 
And please your majesty there is not much behind, I took him prisoner without another stroke.  Car. 
Or wound, but those he had before received.  1. Cap. 
Your majesty says wondrous true.  Car. 
This halfe-dead man cannot be worthy of our sacrifice, at▪ least until recov●red of his wounds— which see performed with all your care.  Exit with Arviragus. Guid. 
Thankes heaven, O may I be excepted that am unuseful to the world.  Car. 
captain, speak now how ye became a master of your prisoner.  Aldr. 
madam, not by a single arm, but multitude was he o'ercome, nor yet could they have gained a victory, but that his care of his distressed and wounded friend, kept him▪ from traversing his ground, whose side he never left, resolving an embrace in death: this I with wonder and delight observed, remembering of your vow to sacrifice, and knowing that the persons value most, makes the offering more acceptable, I cast how to preserve that life he sought to loose, rather then quit his sword, and so resolving to receive a wound and close, it took the wished effect, for whilst I clasped him in mine arms, my Souldiers seaz'd his weapons.  Car. 
Thankes fate, and thankes to valiant and careful Aldred, thou brave young man, whose valour I admire, but must not pitty thy fortune, otherwise then as thou art born in this cursed Ile, bear thyself, when thou comes to die, as nobly as when thou foughtest to free thyself, and friend, and thou shalt have an Altar raised in a queens memory, on which perpetual praises shall be offered, to appease thy angry ghost.  Guid. 
Great queen know, I should joy to be both Priest and Sacrifice to serve you; for those you come to take revenge upon, I hate above you, the treacherous and coward King whom you besiege; but since my desires as yours, tend to his, and his kingdoms ruin, how can I be a proper offering to procure that blessing from great Mars? I blushy least you should think I ur●e this from a fear to die, yet all that have from▪( nature) being, abhor a dissolution, but I durst die, and boldly strengthened by powers that govern nature, yet I should grieve in death, to see so sweet, so brave a queen, ●o pious to the Gods, so far mistaken, to draw down vengeance by the abomination of her Sacrifice.  Car. 
The powers who are, then wee more knowing, seem to have chosen you, nor dare we to infringe our vow; yet so much you have won upon us, that wee'l defer performance of our vow some dayes, and then your friend and you, if he do live, shall cast lots fo● your lives.  Guid. 
Though you intend this as a mercy, I would not be Monarch of the earth, abide the trial— in Arviragus, three must die— your self excepted beauteous queen; know that I hate your Nation, defy your Mars, and all the powers you worship.  Car. 
Ha.  Omnes. 
O Impious.  Guid. 
Call for your Priest, and let your worst of torments seize me, I mocked you when I sued for life, and yet death cannot yield a happiness like that I l●ave behind in Arviragus and Philicia▪  Car. 
Is this from fear or from contempt of death, or grows it from a tenderness of friendship? it must be so, and I will be resolved, before he die.  Guid. 
Why are ye slow in execution? sure you do fear me more then Mars, thus b●und.  Omnes. 
Let's cut him peace▪ meal for this blasphemy.  Car. 
Hold I command you, none dare to usurp on the Priest office, your zeal is ignorance, this fellow that appears ●o brave upon the sudden, does it through cunning, or else is grown distracted from apprehension of the torments he's to suffer, if none of these, yet shall he die, when he desires it, no I will meet his cunning with the like, and what I find can most torment him, that he shall be sure to feel, bear him away to prison:  
The bodies torment's light, the mind being free,  
Ile make them partners in his misery.  Ex. omnes. Enter Artemi● dr●st, Adrastus, the King, Philicia, and a Tr●ine. Adr. 
M●ke way there, clear the Temple doors: what would this Lady? she must not now trouble the King.  Arte. 
I must and will speak to him— traitor and ●nurtherer: King, when thou kneelest before the Altar, and implores beavens help in thy distress, think on Eugenius, whom unjustly thou hast doomed to die, else be assured thy prayers turn to curses, from me one plague thou shalt be sure of my father being put to death, I will unclothe my spirit, of t●is earth, which can by place be circumscribed, then neither guard nor locks shall keep me from thee, but I will ever fright thy guilty soul, till thou shalt wish like me a dissolution of thy parts, so to become less sensual of torment, yet by that error make thy plagues more horrid.  King. 
What kind of▪ spirit's this, that gain●s pitty by threatening mischief?  Phi. 
kneels. Sir, with this Lady I must join, and to her suit add good Sinatus pardon, pardon? I must not call it so, for should I move for them, yet think them guilty, I should become an accessary to the murder of my father, no sir, for certain they are clear, I have been with them both in prison▪ guilt seldom wears a confidence like theirs, when death's so near, who usually plucks off the vizars from dissimulation, hear their cause pleaded by yourself the judge; and if they prove not innocent, inflict a punishment for my presumption, equal to their fault.  King. 
Rise sister, I grant the sure. But now to you Artemia, thou hast gained a power so great, I wish my prayers to the Gods of equal efficacy— on the Temple.  Exit. Manet Adrastus. Adr. 
How doubtful stands my life and fortune▪ apparent danger circles me round, their innocence can no ways rise but from apparancy of guilt in me, I tremble with the apprehension; the Sacrifice once past, the King may give command to keep me prisoner till the trial; ther's no argument why I should hope his favour, he never loved me in his fathers life, and for his kindness now it comes by Sta●res, as from design not flowing natural, I am resolved, she that foretold me of the Kings fate, and his Armies likewise, can foretell something of mine:  
Guide me infernal powers, and let me be  
powerful on earth, this for eternity.  Exit. Enter Cartandus and a captain. Car. 
Is the plate so ordered, that I may over-deare them, and yet they not perceive me?  Cap. 
I dare not say ye shall hear all, but much of their discourse, unless they whisper.  Car. 
Then sure I shall be satisfied.  Ex. ambo. Enter Arviragus and the same captain. Arv. 
Sir, you oblige me every way.  Cap. 
'tis the queens command there should be nothing wanting to the recovery of your health, nor if her vow did not constrain her, would she be so cruel to your friend.  Ar. 
That friend you mention sir, I should be glad to see, my loss of blood made me uncapable to know or thank him, when he did perform so much in my behalf, the last passage of my life, that comes clear within the compass of my memory, was, that my horse lay so upon me, that I could not stir, when I received this wound upon my head, ever since all presents itself with much confusion to me.  Cap. 
Sir, I will leave you to your own thoughts.  Exit. Ar. 
Your servant,— who can this be, that had so great a courage, and so great a care to save from bondage unhappy me, that was within the jaws of death? perhaps Cleanthus, of all most faithful, and it were no little joy to know he lives, but the description I had since, and my then dazzling eyes, persuade me it was a younger man.  Enter Guiderius and a captain. Guid. 
This favour that I now receive, takes from the queen all possibility of being hereafter cruel.  Cap. 
Ile leave you sir to a full freedom.  Exit. Guid. 
O my dear Lord.  Arvi. 
Stay, is this a vision, or being real, how shall I receive thee? thou art the same in show, as when thou wert faithful,  Guid. 
Can Arviragus so much injure himself to think I could be false? friendship contracted, if on either side it fall, does yet condemn your judgement of the guiltless, that made so ill a choice, but never shall you by my want of faith go less in any circumstance of excellence, but still remain the joy and wonder of all hearts that know you.  Arvi. 
Shall I believe this? didst thou not with thy father, make a forfeit of thy faith, yet I might find a pardon from my love, and the strict obligations of a son for that, but thou didst seek to rob me from a treasure, dearer then my soul, in my Philicia's love, thy guilt augmented by the trust imposed, and heavens that with thee only were the witness of our vows, must in their justice, lay some heavy punishment on thy false head for aiming at their violations.  Guid. 
They cannot add to what I suffer now, whilst you believe me false, and yet should I deny ● love Philicia, it were to injure truth, of which she is the soul, but never can that love grow up to such a pitch, to injure friendship, the master passion, when this heart shall yield, althought that renders it unworthy of your love, this hand shall do a horrid justice upon it, and the corrupted person, the mover of such treason.  Ar● 
False-hood may bear a brow as smooth as his; and words thus sleept in oil, say were you not to have been married to the Princes?  Guid. 
It was so believed by all except ourselves, but whilst they did prepare to wish us joy, we found onely in each others faithfulness to you, which on my part to witness, whom reason I confess engages to suspicion, 'tis fit besides the faith of friendship, I clear myself by the same reason, that spotted me with guilt, for else friendship on your part by your suspect, seems to have suffered, my father wrought on by ambition, a passion powerful with great souls, I had no power to change nor to forsake, for so I, his son leaving him, had added to the opinion of his guilt, nor durst I, when come to the King, show an aversion; but as I hopt and prayed, as fast I had the means to let my father see his guilt, and by the hazard of my life( if friendship do not claim the act) beg his forgiveness, who will die your faithful servant, in his behalf I left the city, to warn you of the old Kings death, and that the new King, under security of the Truce sworn, meant to surprise you.  Arv. 
It must be truth.  Guid. 
Thus whilst impossibility forbade, my many obligations did command, but accidents crossing my good design, I found you not till death had almost seaz'd you, your senses failing, where by the coming of a Troope of Danish horse, were made prisoners both to the faire and cruel queen Car●●des.  Arv. 
O my Guiderius, thou hast  told a story, that whilst I do with joy and wonder hear, transform me to the guilty person, that could suspect such faith and nobleness, why did I think Philicias always true, and yet suspect thee to be false, I dare not say thy worth is more then hers, but thou hast left me far behind, be not ambitious then of such a famed as will beget the envy of the Gods, and make the story of your friendship, when it shall be red, hardly believed, from the inequality of worth, the obligations all remaining on thy part, but in despite of partial fortune, I will do something that may express I would not be ungrateful.  Guid. 
What would ye do?  Arv. 
Thou shalt not die alone, this bloody and inhuman queen, had wanted power to make a Sacrifice of thee, but that thy love to me unworthy, had for●'t thee dedicate thyself to death, but I will glut her barbarous soul that thirst for human blood, no Sacrifice can be so proper for the Danes as Arviragus.  Guid. 
I do believe indeed, that but to know they had you prisoner, would yield more joy to the whole Army, then Mars could grant them for being offered; but is your hate to me so great, that you would gratify my murders with their wish? it rather would become your wisdom and your courage( pardon so young a tutor) to aim at liberty, by which you might revenge my death, and yet if ye do find, as I am confident ye shall, that pity in the queen strives with her piety to keep her oath, let her not in a wish feel your revenge, 'tis fate then, you can onely quarrel with that, marked me out the first that should be taken prisoner on the Ile.  Ar. 
And therefore you must die.  Guid. 
So fate appoints, which should ye seek to alter; you lay a tax upon my fortitude, and wrong our friendship.  Ar. 
But if it shall appear you have done this slily, usurp upon my right, as being first, if not as soon a prisoner, the breach upon your part will show like arrogance, I having more yeeres practised the ways of death with greater frequency, to arm me for the encounter; had you( as I did once suspect) attempted to supplant me, in Philicias love, from her perfections, I could sooner find excuses, then for this intrusion, her falsehood could not taint my ho●or, but here in this rivality for death, if it be due, to magnify a seeming friendship you stuck on me, the brand of fearful coward, so yielding up to chance or policy, that little famed that I have purchased, by my loss of blood.  Guid. 
O speak not this sir, your pure famed is mounted to a hight that slander cannot reach.  Ar. 
'tis just, I now suspect your friendship, that dare injure truth, famed that depends upon the breath of men, ●an near be freed from its Creator; all we can do to keep it pure, is that the ingredients be made up of truth, and then the Gods approve of our ambition: that sacred friendship be not injured; I am resolved, if you were taken prisoner, first to glory in that confidence, which you shall show in death, and after if it grows within my power, revenge it to the full.  Guid. 
Not on the queen.  Ar. 
That as you please, if I be found the proper Sacrifice.  Guid. 
You O sir, remember Philicia, you must not think of dying.  Ar. 
No▪ yes young man, and when I think upon Philicia, I am more engaged, the Gods destroy not their own Ordinances, nor bring us unto glory, or to joy, but by the ways of virtue, honor they have appointed for the soul of all mens actions, and when I fail in that, can they in justice grant me the continuance of so great a blessing, as Philicia's love?  Guid. 
But with what justice can you seek to alter that, which truth and fate appoints for me?  Ar. 
Nor truth nor fate are manifest, until the end of every action.  Guid. 
For friendship sake, for all the joys that you may justly hope for in Philicia, discover not that you are Arviragus, for other right to die I know you cannot urge, you so shall onely prove a murderer of yourself, no ways deliver me, which you intend; we both shall die, you in revenge of all the Danish blood, that you have  shed, and I, to satisfy the vow.  Ar. 
No, I shall satisfy for both, their joy will be so great in their revenge.  Enter Cartandus. Car. 
vain men, how bootless is your strife, did not my own particular passion sway to an election, both should be sure to die, yet I am rapt with admiration of your brave and faithful souls, as having over-heard much of your Stories, and that ye are so excellent, though it increase pitty in me for you, it must likewise inflame me in the exercise of my devotion to great Mars, for now it is apparent, not chance, but the Divinity, prepared fierce Arviragus for his altar, whose blood once spilled by us in way of Sacrifice, shall prove as fatal to this cursed Ile, as the Palladiums l●sse was to unhappy Troy.  Ar. 
Heaven hath inspired you with their knowledge, I am this islands fate, and in your power, the ruin of your nation, if I scape your hands.  Guid. 
Great queen be pleased to think upon your vow, let not revenge injure your pity, I am the appointed Sacrifice; the way to conquer all this Ile, is to preserve this man alive; and by so great a favour make him yours, he is the heart, the center of her loves.  Car. 
Away with both to prison, all arguments that either yet have used to change me, turn to confirmation of my resolution, so far both are mistaken.  
Where power and virtue, grounds of ruin be,  
Safety would rise from imbecility.  Ex. omnes.  

ACT. II.  Enter the Witch. Witch. 
How dull and heavy are my spirits! the mischief that I do, yields not the sweet delight, that I had wont to feel, how can they, being done by hal●es? my power grows less, some Planet governs now that checks my Art, and why? the number of my yeeres cannot set limits to my Masters power, great Lucifer must reign for ever, and unto me whilst I have being on the earth, he hath promised me power by virtue of our contract, Ile question with my spirit— Ho, Eglon.  Enter Eglon. Eglon. 
Here dread Mistris, what's your will?  Wit. 
Tell me why all the mischiefs I design of late move slowly, or when effected yields me no pleasure as they had wont.  Egl. 
It onely grows from the distemper of your mind, sadness● possesses you of late.  Wit. 
It is not that my power is lessened? I am not obeied.  Egl. 
How, not obeied? ye are our princess favourite, and he is onely thought a happy devil whom you employ, your power is without limit, speak but your wish, and in an instant 'tis performed.  Wit. 
Remove this sadness from me.  Egl. 
The peace of soul grows not within our Region, for great minds scorn such calm poor things, proper for Heinds, tempests of soul befits those that have power.  Wit. 
I grant this true, but I would have a present calm, to set the glory of tho●e tempests off the better, let me have pleasing objects, music, let every sense be glutted with delight, all that the world can yield, to please humanity.  M●sque. Exit. Egl. 
Away, all these at once are troublesone, variety can onely please, that gives the soul to all we can possess, begun and leave me wholly to myself.  Enter Adrastus. Adr. 
Yonder she sits, although I fear to spe●ke to her, a greater fear comples me hither.  Wit. 
Ha, who art thou.  Adr. 
Grave Matron do you not know me?  Wi. 
Now I do, what would you with me? speak your will.  Ad. 
She's gentle.— I come not now to know great Prophets, or Kings, but my own fate.  Wi. 
Let me behold thee well, ha thou hast a dr●●d. full look, that does portend mischief to m, and to thyself.  Ad. 
To you.  Wi. 
Leave me, I do beseech thee.  Ad. 
Be pleased to tell me first my fortune.  Wi. 
I dare not.  Ad. 
Dare not, how she trembles.  Wi. 
Be gone, or to the King I will discover you killed his father.  Ad. 
Thou badst me do it, so shal't appear as guilty.  Wi. 
I did not villain, ther's horror in his look, Ile call my spirits to defend me from him, fear takes away my power, nor can I speak a charm.  Ad. 
Are ye conjuring? sure I shall be torn in pieces, speak, name my fate.  Wi. 
I will not— cannot.  Ad. 
No, take thine own then.  Kills her. Wi. 
Oh Lucifer, false Lucifer, thou hast deceived me— Dies.  Ad. 
Ha, can she be dead, she stirs, so now sure she is, and by her death I reap a greater benefit, then what I came for, the knowledge of my end, no creature now can say, I killed the King, vanish all idle fear: since I had power to kill this Witch, I will contemn all danger.  Enter two. Souldiers. 1 Sol. 
O My Lord, you are well found, We followed you with all the hast we could.  Ad. 
What would you with me?  So. 
The King commands to seize your person.  Ad. 
Ha— How suddenly my natural fear returns? Sure I am lost, My noble friends, 'tis true, his Majesty is for the present incensed against me, on a Mistake: Which, when I shall have time to clear, my power will be greater than ever: I dare engage my life, his Majesty himself will give you thanks; in the mean time, accept these trifles from your servant, and say you could not find me.  Sol. 
O my Lord, we dare not, so we may answer for you with our heads.  Ad. 
Will you not oblige me?  Sol. 
Not at so dear a rate, believe it, your Honour much mistakes, to think to Bribe us from our Duty.  Ad. 
Well I will follow you.  Sol. 
O your Lordship is much the better man, pray led the way.  Ad. 
I will not, I suspect you come to murder me here in this Wood.  So. 
does your own aptness to do mischief make you suspect us? come along my Lord.  Ad. 
I will not, by what authority can you compel me? you have no warrant.  So. 
Yes— this sealed by the Kings command, and this shall force you to his Presence, dead or alive.  Ad. 
There is no remedy—, I dare not fight with both; Honest Captaines, I do commend your Faith; my innocence from any crime, and the Kings Justice, arms me with confidence, how ere I made a show of fear; and what I offered as a Bribe, I now reward your truth and nobleness. Withall, two officers, and neither will take bribe, shows slander, and not truth doth brand your Tribes.  Enter Guimantes. Gui. 
Thou Deity of Love, then natures self more powerful, I find thy work in my soul, even to the change of al my faculties, choler that from the smallest spark occasion gave, wood in an instant grow a flamme unto my trouble, and my friends confusion, is by the gentler fire of Love extinguished quiter, and I am pleased in nothing more than to forgive my thirst for Arviragus blood, is likewise quenched, my burning Lust changed to a heat ltke that which brings the Votary upon his knees before th'altar, for 'tis in vain to hope till I become in some proportion good to be incorporate with her that is the Essence both of virtue and of beauty.  Enter Philitia and Art mia in mourning. 
See where she comes, divine Artemia, joy in that mourning habit, the outward witness of your piety, and this day wear it, till you see entombed all the unruly passions of my soul, their deaths is as great a Trophy to your beauty, as those perfections are to nature; but this day past, unless you would again destroy what ye have made, which were unnatural, lay by these mourning weeds, emblems of sorrow, which ill befits her that commands a Prince.  Ar. 
I know not Sir how I have gained that power, Nor can I credit whilst my Father is a prisoner.  Gui. 
By this he is not so, or if he bee, danger shall keep as great a distance from him as this heart, which I should be more careful of, were it by you acknowledged yours.  Ar. 
I should bee unnatural in the refusal, were I assured of such a sympathy, for nothing can be dearer to me then his safety.  Gui. 
Time shall not number many dayes, ere I remove all possibility of doubt how much I love you: and sister, that you may assist to give her all assurance, Sinatus likewise shall bee freed, whom I am confident, you love for Arviragus sake, as well as his own virtue, nay bee my turn, Ile leave both to the freedom of loves.  Phi. 
Is it possible wee should expect such blessing from you?  Ar. 
Sir I confess I cannot doubt you.  Gui. 
Nor I then, of happiness more than the world besides, Ile strait give order for brave Adrastus process, Whom I do more now then suspect did kill my Father, the form of law to satisfy the world, must not be neglected, let your good wishes guide me in the service I intend you.  Exit. Phi. 
O dear Artemia, all this is counterfeit, lust prompts him to dissemble, hoping so to gain his ends on thee.  Art. 
I do with grief believe it, for I confess I do not hate his person, but his 'vice.  Phi. 
The love to Arviragus he professed, called all in question: Arviragus thou art I fear above his malice, and dost from heaven laugh at his cunning falsehood, if on the Earth, may thy good Genius keep thee far without his reach, his malice is immortal, cannot cease, till 'vice and virtue make a peace.  Enter 1. 1. 
O Gracious Lady the saddest news.  Phi. 
speak Sir, I know we are round beset with miseries, but say from whence the storm breaks▪ first upon us.  1. 
From Arviragus death, the best oF men.  Phi. 
Oh.  
Though yet 'tis true he is not dead, 'twere vain in me to seek to comfort you, his fate is so certain, he's taken by the Danes, designed for sacrifice, and they to him have so much cause of hate, that should the Gods command the contrary, of that they seem to have decreed, and all mankind join in the svit, they would not save him.  Phi. 
O 'tis too certain, ill news is seldom false; but how came you to this unhappy knowledge?  1. 
One of the Danish sentinels was taken prisoner, that declares this.  Ar. 
Rumours are often false.  1. 
This is too true, withall he tells us of a youth, which strives with Arviragus which should die, and paints him forth so lively, both in the bravery of his mind, and beauty of his person, that sure it is Guiderius your Brother, and my beloved Kinsman.  Art. 
Ah me, my Brother, poor Guiderius, my soul presaged thy ruin.  Phi. 
Though Arviragus danger fill my heart with sorrow, yet I am bound to offer this addition, and sure my heart grows deader then it was, although not from increase, yet from the assurance of my misery, beyond which, what a mockery will it be to live my Brothers scorn? besides, I must endure, for wee'l his large possessions show, he knew of this before: I am resolved, as yet I have done nought but▪ take a little to express I loved, they bleed and bleed, yet I am idle: Artemia thou seemest struck dead with the sad news, it hath shot itself quiter through thy tender soul, and well such sorrows do become thee thus melt thyself away.  
I have no tears, weep for thyself and me,  
When so expired, Ile mourn for me and thee.  Exit. An Altar raised. Enter Cartandes, Arviragus brought in. Car. 
Great Mars; behold the sacrifice thou didst appoint, before thy Altar stands, and from the valley of th' offering, poure down a blessing on thy votary, and these assistant, this is that man for whose sake thou so long hast frownd upon our Nation, making this Ile a sepulchre for Danes, be reconciled wee besee●h thee, and accept our vows, let us by him obtain Revenge against our foes, and a full Conquest of this Land, half ruinated by their Civill strife.  
Omnes Great Mars, we do beseech thee grant her svit and ours.  Car. 
Have at thy heart bold Pict.  Ar. 
Strike thou inhuman Tygresse.  Car. 
I have no power to strike( I cannot) sure some Divinity holds back my hands, on the sudden does inspire me with a true knowledge of his will, whispers to my soul, the way to be revenged vpon our Saxon for, and gain the Ile, is to preserve this valiant Prince, the favourite of Mars, still I am prompted to this thought, and now me thinks even Mars himself, did he appear unto our human eyes, could not command from me a greater reverence; doth not an awful Majesty shine round about him? it doth, and I am impious to strive so long against a heavenly inspiration: For what but a divinity would change, could change the mortal hatred I bore to Arviragus, even in the instant, whilst I longed for his hearts blood, which now shall bee the first of all my faculties, employed to serve him.  She unb●nds him. Cap. 
The queen is certainly inspired.  Ar. 
What shall I think of this? am I not mocked?  Car. 
Receive this sword, and if you find this my respect not real, then take revenge by making me a sacrifice,— and now to you my valiant Souldiers, for my sake, for obedience to th' Gods, Whose substitute I am, and so best know there will convert like me, your hatred to this Prince, to such a Love, as may beget perfect obedienee, and in reward, I in the name of Mars, and all the powers assure your wishes: but lest there should be some, inward souls cannot as yet conceive or relish this our present happiness, but must make reason the sole foundation of their Faith, as scorning all superior or mysterious working of the Gods, even unto such wee yield what they desire sufficient reason for our present act.  Ar. 
What shall I think of this?  Car. 
How nere was your last King my Brother, to the master of this Ile, When Arviragus, then a youth, gave check unto his many Victories, making it known then first, the Danes were not invincible, for till that time, ten Danes, where ere they met, would chase double the number of the islands, but now his virtue hath so shot itself through all the inhabitants, he being their leader, that we have onely landed to bring our lives and goods as tribute, and as Trophies to enrich his famed: it is apparent then, that all the force, and virtue lay within his powerful arm, nor can wee doubt of victory, having those strengths applied in our behalf that was so prevalent against us, and for his faithfulness to us, we cannot doubt, the Saxons have betrayed him▪ in reward of all his favours, we for a thousand mischiefs he hath done, not onely grant him life, but leave our own to be disposed of by him.  Cap. 
What the divinity commands, and you inform, it is our duty to obey.  Os. 
Your virtue and your wisdom, divinest Lady, governs our wils as persons.  Om. 
Our happiness is chiefly placed in you, and fit you should appoint the way unto it.  Car. 
Then here with the consent of all, wee do commitful power touching the War, to him that hither, to hath been the great disposer of it.  Ar. 
Wonder thus long hath sealed my lips, and though necessity enforce me to speak, it l●ss●ns not my admiration, if your intent be real, as reason yet enforces me to doubt, I must not undertake that power you would confer, but upon these conditions, first that all Picts, be free and sharers in your conquest, next that all Saxons, who shall yield themselves, whole cities or particular persons may bee received as friends unto the Danes, and me their general▪ this granted, I receive my charge, and vow by the immortal. Deities, perfect obedience to her▪ whose bounty gives me life and power to right myself on these, whose falsehood sought to take it from me.  Car. 
This we must grant in reason, your Picts will be no little strengthening, and for such Saxons as shall yield themselves, they are as yours, and worthy of all favour, tremble false King, 'tis not thy City walls can defend: the ports will open fly, if Arviragus once approach their eye, whose hearts he doth command.  
Thy subjects but in name,  
His, conquered by his virtue and his famed.  Enter Guiderius. Guid. 
Shee is not fairer then Philicia, nor doth her mercy shewed to me, and Arviragus express her soul more noble, why then should shee be entertained with willingness to rule this heart, whereas my reason, virtue, all my faculties, where ever summoned up to make resistance, 'gainst the assaults made by Philicias merits, but here how pleasing is the wound, how sweet the Bondage, why is it so, unconstant that I am, how ever friendship, so virtue barred me the expression of my love in earnest, or any wish to be beloved again, yet so much of my heart was allowed for passion to a woman, my secret vows and inclination engaged it to Philicia, and that for ever, yet now, false that I am, I fear I love Cartandes better, thus I am made by doubt unworthy, so much as respect, from either. Love is above mine hope, as far as I am below them in merit: Even Arviragus self, a Prince, whose worth and fame's, so great, that conquers whilst a Captive could not deserve the love of either Philicia or this queen, by less engagement then his heart entire, and shall I dare to offer mine by h●lves, a sacrifice to them and love? Pardon thou Deity, tis not want, but excess of Love, begets irresolution, which time and virtue will decide, that done:  
None did or ever shall so fully prove,  
By Faith and zeal divinity of love.  Exit. Enter Philicia in the habit of a man, and Liriana. Phi 
This happiness by much exceeds our expectation, resolving to be taken prisoners, wee find all freedom in the camp.  Li. 
It is true, nor is there any fear of Arviragus being sacrificed, but rather there are Altars raising unto him as to a God, by this is evident the power of Princes.  Phi. 
Rather the power of virtue, whose eminence in Arviragus compelled this queen spite of her vow, and former hatred, to save his life, and yield all power into his hands, and though her own ends I must think, did move her chiefly, she does deserve from me all love and service.  Enter two Danes. 1. 
Let all avoid this place, the queen is coming hither.  Phi. 
Sir, may it be permitted to a stranger only to see the queen?  1. 
You may as she pass by.  Phi. 
Many thanks sir.  Enter Cartandes lead by Arviragus, ●uiderius▪ Cleantes. Car. 
Most Noble Arviragus, we now begin to taste ourself the sweetness of the mercy showed to you, for by the virtue of your person and command our Army is increased, men and all provision above your wish and delight, since it proceeds from you: and for this Gentleman your friend, an attribute which does include all worth, we likewise hope he will believe ther's no favour we can grant, but we shall think we do ourself an honor, in conferring it on him.  Guid. 
Great queen, he that does hold his life by your free gift, should show he scarce believed a thanks were due, if he in words should think to pay the debr, fortune may yield a danger worthy the undertaking some action, that may try a heart devoted to your service, then if my acts speaks not my gratitude, let me be scorned by your divinest self,& hated by that friend, for whose sake you esteem me.  Car. 
We do believe more then you can express, and must desire you in the same kind, will oblige us too: Prince Arvigarus, we must desire a private conference with you, touching astaires of importance.  Exit, manet Guiderius▪ Cleanthus& Philicia. Ar. 
I wait your Majesties command.  Leads out the queen, kiss her hand. Guid. 
Worthy Cleanthus, what happiness is this we do enjoy above our hopes?  Cle. 
How much the working of the heavens exceed our apprehensions, that when we thought destruction near, their providence had so prepared, to make the Battles loss, the means of greater happiness.  Guid. 
It was no little blessing, but to know that there was such a queen, a Lady of so brave a mind, so beautiful a person, but then to have the means to know and serve her, is a happiness above all else the world can yield.  Exit. Phi. 
I am not known to Arviragus, or Guiderius, nor do I think I ever shall be, not to myself, I fear Philicia is not what she was, for is it possible I can be jealous of Arviragus faith to me? I am not jealous, 'tis a just fear, begot by reason the beauty of the queen, her power, her merits all applied to him, in the most noble way, besides the rumour that seldom is a friend to innocence, had reason on 'ts side to render me inconstant, my marriage to Guiderius, how strange a turn is this in fate? I came to die for Arviragus, having first revenged his blood upon a barbarous queen; but now a queen to courteous, and a living Arviragus, kill all my joys, and leave me not the possibility or measure of revenge, for if he judged me false, as sure he did, he is not so, although he love Cartandes, who then is guilty of my misery, Philicia or her cruel fortune? fortune if it be thou; 'tis but thy usual practise, but if my jealousy do prove unjust,  
Then I create a monster to destroy myself.  
Barks fraught with love soon split upon this shelf.  Exit. Enter Cartandes and Arviragus. Car. 
The affair we are to treat of in which you are to give your counsel and assistance, concerns the life, honor, and happiness of one I highly prise.  Ar. 
The least of these engages all my powers.  Car. 
I Pray view that picture well.  Takes a Picture out of her bosom. Ar. 
It is a face I have been well acquainted with, or rather one that's not unlike it, sure 'tis not mine, it cannot be, if so, how came she by it?  Car. 
do ye not know the face?  Ar. 
Madam, 'twere arrogance to think it mine, considering where you kept it.  Car. 
Be not a greater friend unto civility then truth: were it not Arviragus picture, I should as much contain myself for wearing it, as I do honour him, I see ye are amazed, and ye have cause, bee pleased to sit, whilst I relate a story, that will unriddle all my actions, and chase this wonder from you.  Ar. 
Madam, I shall with such a reverence harken, as if a Deity would to a curious mortal unshadow some much covered mystery.  Ar 
And in the plain and simplo dialect of truth, Ile lay my heart naked before you.— When to my brother still, the sad news came of such defeates as here his men received,( and you the author) his hate to you unjustly, did not grow so fast, as my esteem waranted by virtue, since what you did, was in defence, both of your Prince and country, yet the first sparks of love, took fire from emulation, wishing myself a man, that in a combat I might loose ray life, or take from you those glorious spoils, that even your enemies were forced to dress you in that thought, though vain, yet prompted to a curiosity more fruitful, which was to see what form he bore, that in his acts of courage and humanity, so far exceed all, and this was by obtaining your picture satisfied, but from that satisfaction grew so great a flamme that emulatious curiosity were lost in it, and now it was no wonder, that the substance, by that shadow represented should conquer all, when my proud heart was made a captive from the sight of it: to hid this love, I often was obliged to hear my brothers curses, uttered against this Ile and you, nor did I stick at last, to fain a hatred equal to his, which he believing real, at his death engaged me in a promise, of passing with the Army then in readiness into this Ile; appointed that inhuman sacrifice to Mars, for good success, the unhappy lot fell on your friend and you, and by my cunning, no other inspiration of a Deity, then that of love, you were preserved, nor can I think indeed, that any other is so powerful, since it h●th made me, whom Kings have sued for, thus to relate the passions of my soul, and seem to beg relief from one my mercy hath preserved.  Ar. 
Let such a faith, and such a reverence as wee do bring to hear an Oracle, clear me of vanity, though I believe the story of your fore past love, which by another  told, would seem a fable invented to abuse a credulous ear, but reason, which justly circles me with wonder, assures me, that by this you see the power of famed and fancy, and quickly will relieve yourself from their abuse.  Car. 
How mean you by that?  Ar. 
This shadow hath some resemblance, but mark well, and you shall find the Painter gross●ly flattered; but fames abuse, your self can witness be●●, she to your ear always delivered me a conqueror invincible, dressed in the spoils of others, but when truth shall inform how you have ever seen me, yet famed shows a louder liar then the Painter, the Battles loss, after the which, I proved a prisoner, justly takes from me the opinion of a Leader, suffering myself to be surprised, and beaten by an enemy, which I contemned; but could you see my mind, which doubtless, you believed composed of virtue, how much I am defective, what falsehood I am guilty of, how subject to ingratitude, even where I have been most obliged; you then must make another judgement, and with reasons help conclude, that I am rather worthy of your scorn or pitty, then your love: famed having played the Mountebancke, and I although not guilty, yet the mature subject of her falsehood, that worthless piece, for which you were to pay your heart; a jewel which all the virtue, fames and excellence of the world cannot without the free addition of your bounty purchase.  Car. 
You that ta●e famed of falsehood, should yourself fear to undergo that censure, the world testifying upon her side against you, but for your secret faults, 'tis true the conscience is a thousand witness●s, if not, I do already see so far, I durst condemn you for ingratitude and folly, since you refuse a tender of that heart you so much magnify, yet it had been a greater injury to love, a greater torment to myself, to have concealed longer a passion justifiable to the world, since placed on him whom all love and admire: but having thus breathed forth my passion, enlarged it to your knowledge, I hope I shall( unless you join) in time, w●thdraw much of the fuel that maintains loves fire, and with the general world admire your virtues onely.  Exit Cartandes. Ar. 
She's gone in passion, and with me shee leaves no little portion of her trouble, I wish her hate to me had not been counterfeit, the sacrificing knife could not have caused a pain like the distraction I do feel, from the relation of a love so Noble, whose every circumstance adds lustre to the owner, and lays an obligation Vpon me, the object of that love so great, that time, torment, nor Death cannot deface, and yet I must not love her as a mistress, that were not grateful, but injurious, since breach of faith unto Philicia must render me unworthy, and she deserves the best blessings humanity can yield—  
In this distraction who shall be my guide,  
Ingratitude doth threaten here, and on this side,  
Falsehood in love, if I to either yield,  
virtue is slain and passion wins the field,  
Oh rather let this heart, where the field's fought,  
By their contention be confum'd to nought.   

ACT. III.  Enter Eugenius and Sinatus as i● prison. Eug. 
Sinatu●, whether shall we believe this our enlargement in the prison, to see and speak with who we please, is granted as a farewell to the world, or a prologue to prepare a way for a full feedome both of our persons, and from the slander that hath lane so heavy on us.  Sin. 
doubtless my Lord, our inno●ence is known, Adrastus questioning declares no less, to whom if they do offer t●rtures, as it is reported, upon my life he will confess, though it should cost his head, cowards so apprehended the present pain, that it confounds their present judgement, to force a future, although greater.  Eug. 
How ever, should we die, since innocent, that grief will not be balanc't by the joy, to know our deaths shal be revenged by Arviragus, who hath full powers both of the Danish queen, and her most puissant Army, fear of our danger makes our present usage better, not that the King can change his cruel nature, his smile I ever must suspect as dangerous, unless I could forget who was his Father.  Sin. 
I must confess I do not think him the best of men, yet till his envy to Arviragus grew to a hight, he was a hopeful youth, and aimed at generosity, but being of a haughty Spirit, and over-mastered by the others merits, he scorned it seems to be a second, and therefore choose a different way, though much the worse, perhaps those sparks of virtue are but smothered: not put out, and ill success in 'vice, a mercy in the Gods may make them yet break forth a glorious flamme, to warm each subjects heart with ioy, may I but live to see that day, I might conclude him virtuous, although I died the next, it would not grieve me.  Eug. 
I must confess 'tis piety in you that are his subiects, to hope and wish this, but as for me that am anothers in heart, and by my birth, with whom it is impossible he can be reconciled, I cannot wish him so much happiness to grow better, 'tis impossible his thoughts are now b●●t on a base design, the ruin of my daughters honour, before attempted, and doth he think that heaven, and a Fathers eyes pierces not through all clouds, that by his cunning can be cast before us?  Sin. 
In all your fears, I hope ye are mistaken, we must allow to man, repentance of his ills, or else the powers must want that attribute of mercy which they delight in, and by the which, they are most magnified.  Enter Artemia with a Letter in each hand. Ar. 
I will again peruse them ere I yield belief to either. My fathers letter first.  Letter. 
So may a hungry Lion crouch and bow,  
Till by that crost, he get within his power  
That pray which he intends for to devour:  
Lust often makes, but seldom keeps a vow.  
That bide that scaped the snare unppityed dies,  
If it stay gazing on the Fowlers eyes.  
Can there be any thing in this other, knowing the falsehood of the man, knowing from whom it comes, to hinder my obedience, to this warning of my fathers? yes, there is pleasing falsehood in it, this though all reason speak it truth, 'tis a hard text, but yet must be obeied; which that I may, in pieces I will ●eare this charm, and yet it were but fit, that I again should red it, so in mind to register his falsehood, which may incite me to a full revenge, for all mine and my fathers wron●s, when time shall grant us power: 'tis better tear it, yet no, I must red it once again.  Letter. 
What you have red expressed by ink,  
If you misdoubt my love will not make good,  
Such cruelty will change the ink to blood.  Guimantes.— 
Oh cruel fate, that all this should be false,  
'tis false, 'tis false, which thus I will revenge.  tears it: Enter King. King. 
Decrest Artemia, in so great passion! what guilty paper is it you punish?  Art. 
I should my Lord perhaps have spared the paper, had the sender been as innocent.  King. 
It was my fear— Takes up the pa●ers. Can ye be faithless yet? oh love, how false thy comforts a●e: when shall I dare to hope a recompense, when yet my sufferings have not gained belief?  Art. 
It were preposterous, nay impossible, for the effect to be before the cause.  King. 
What cruelty is this to speak, as if you could believe I could not love?  Art. 
It were a cruelty unto myself, greater then you can name, to wish you should.  King. 
Why should a Princes love be so offensive?  Art. 
A Princes love next that to heaven, is it all mortals covet, nay most fix, there, and look no further: but as the purest things, if once corrupt, become of meanest valu●, so Princes favours, which are onely seemings, not firm and real in their substance, are like the deadlyest poisons to be shunned, especially by women, but I am armed by former wrongs, so fortified against your vows, that could you by your shows of passion deceive the Gods, and so engage them as the sureties of your faith, I rather would fly off from their obedience, as ignorant defective powers, then yield unto an amity with one that's opposite to all that's true, or noble.  King. 
It is against my will that I am opposite to truth or nobleness, for I would ●aine an interest in yourself, so to ●articipate of all perfection, nor could I think, for such a purchase my crown could be too dear a prise, if you which yet you not believe, should not become a loser by it, and know cruel Artemia, if neither time, nor yet the services I shall do, can make you see the truth of my affection, I will like you grow marble; be more cruel to myself then you can wish, my heart which whilst I love you I must cherish your picture, being there enshrined, shall from the madness of my passion and despair, bee ript before you, that you there may red unjust suspicion fooled you to a dead of horror, whose guilt shall make you ever wretched, this by the sacred powers, I will perform.  Art. 
Can this be yet dissembled?  King. 
But if you can look on me with the eyes ●● reason, and that produce a pitty of my sufferings, think but how welcome will such mercy be, and my poor heart scorch, with the beams, that shoot from those bright eyes, shall like the parched earth suck up the heavenly comforts you let fall, then shall you glory in my faith, my grateful soul unto ●t self record, the sweetness of your pity; from, and to both will rise a spring of joys, which shall ●or ever flourish.  Art. 
If I be mistris of that power which you profess, it will not be ill manners though I leave you.  King. 
But there is in it much of cruelty unless you bid me love, that I may live.  Art. 
do justice to my father and Sinatus, which is to clear them, and when you return, I will pronounce your sentence, if ye be mine so much, as you profess, I am to sign your passe-port to the elysium shades.  King. 
'tis not to be denied, for your must there become the matter of my bliss, without you that Paradise were hell.  Enter Cartandes Guiderius and others. Os. 
What answer will it please your majesty to give the Herald, who from the besieged King desires safe conduct for an ambassador?  Car. 
What answer will I give, why knows not Oswa●d, on whom I have conferred all power? let him attend Prince Arviragus.  Os. 
To make yourself a stranger to a business of this nature, were to forget your safety.  Car. 
Oswald, to teach your Princes is to forget your duty; when Arviragus shall neglect or injure me in what he stands en●aged, let the Gods likewise cast me from their care, for rather let me perish, then mistrust his virtue, go and attend his will, we would be private, Guiderius you may stay,—  Exeunt Oswald and others▪ Guid. 
I shall attend your Highnesse.  Car. 
Arviragus faith's engaged unto another, and that's the cause, he entertains my love, with so much coldness; his answers all were sharp civilities: Ile see i● I can from Guiderius attain a perfect knowledge, if I be not mistaken he can hardly deny me any thing, nor does he nor any know more then by guess, that I love Arviragus.— Guiderius, if Arviragus do consent, who do you think the King will sand to treat, or what may we conceive will be his message?  Guid. 
Madam, both are beyond my mean conjectures.  Car. 
Rather ye are reserved, wee should have answered you with greater freedom.  Guid. 
Madam, I shall be miserable, if you believe I should not glory in obedience to your least commands, more then in being master of all other power that did not tend unto your service.  Car. 
certainly, you Picts and Saxons have a custom of professing, and never fear you should be taken at your word, we Danes are rude, but yet more faithful, scorning to speak but what we wish should be believed.  Guid. 
Were it the use of others, yet it is not so with me, or were it, you are a Divinity, to whom I durst not speak or seem, but what in truth, I am one that believes no blessing like your fav●ur.  Car. 
How shall I trust this? suppose that Arviragus should enjoin one thing, and I the contrary, your friendship unto him, would make you unto me prove disobedient, see then how far your protestations are above your power or resolution.  Guid. 
I know that he's so much yours obliged by all your favours, that when he knew what were your pleasure, he soon would cease to have a will, other then what should wait on yours.  Car. 
Since you evade this supposition, as you think, I will a little vary it; put case you have a mistress, rather your friend, for I esteem you one, this mistress does command you, or your friend, what I approve not, how then shall you obey, without the breach of faith?  Guid. 
When you shall make me happy by commanding, I shall not lose that blessing by my disobedience.  Car. 
It seems onely your friend then hath a Mistris.  Guid. 
Madam, that does not prove he hath, that I have none, whom I dare style so.  Car. 
This your equivocation makes me now in earnest, and shall no longer save you from falsehood, or disobedience.  Guid. 
What means the queen?  Car. 
Did Arviragus ever love?  Guid. 
He hath.  Car. 
Whom doth he now love best.  Guid. 
That's more then I can say, since he hath seen an Argument so powerful to beget a change.  Car. 
do you believe my beauty is so great, ●o stagger such a faith as his?  Guid. 
Madam, I have cause, and yet I judge that beauty the least part of your perfections.  Car. 
It would be no little happiness I see, to have that person I should love, receive my Character from you.  Guid. 
Not from my flattering tongue, but could my heart be red, and that he might equal the pattern of respect there set before him, there were no other cause of fear, but an offence against the Deities, by your rivality with them, witness by your devotion of your victory.  Car. 
Does all of your Country speak in this obliging way?  Guid. 
All that speak truth, and speak of you, can say no less.  Car. 
Ile try the conversation of some others, and if I find them such, still when I would be flattered, I will admit of none, but those born in this Ile.  Guid. 
Indeed, the policy would not be ill, for by conversing, you might conquer without bloodshed.  Car. 
Why, do you think I should so oft be in your humour to be flattered?  Guid. 
It were not in your power to be so, if all like me spoken but their thoughts, 'tis not the hearer, but the speaker makes the flattery, no more can you be flattered when I praise, then when wee pay to heaven our best devotion, since truth, but with some difference gives to both their motion.  Car. 
But yet I must not think you by this oily way, obtain so strict a friendship with Prince Arviragus.  Guid. 
certain no other, how-ever you are pleased to term it, for how can friendship knit without professions be made really, or they but where there's love, and faith, and love to entertain those offers, then does two souls unite, from whence doth rise to Gods and men, such joys, as none can speak, that have not entertained the bliss of love or friendship, those I count on, yet love the more refined, as being that great happiness the wise Creator made for us, but friendship betwixt man and man, hath some defects, which proves it is our own election.  Car. 
It seems a friendship then twixt you and me, or rather Arviragus and myself, for the equality, would give a lustre, might raise much happiness to us and others? I see this moves you by this silence, seem to contradict what you proposed, as the most happy amity, are we not man and woman, equal in birth, in worth as I do gather from your praise, and love to both, why then should we not join in perfect friendship?  Guid. 
virtue may command the contrary, you are perhaps engaged.  Car. 
To none so much as him.  Guid. 
If he were free when first he saw you, it is impossible but in his soul he b●gs this honour, you proposed, if well observed, you by his sighs and sad looks, emblems of pure devotion, shall soon perceive yourself the Saint that he adores.  Car. 
I yet am ignorant, what kind of sighs or sad looks you do mean.  Guid. 
Like those you may observe sometimes in me.  Car. 
But you profess to have no Mistris, so yours and consequently his must needs be counterfeit, nay so is all mankind in their professions, which since I know, have not so mean a thought of me as to believe the least of what I spoken for earnest, yet think not but I highly prise Arviragus merits, nor am I ignorant of yours, or the respect you pay me, but as for love, my breeding in the war, hath frighted from me such soft things, unless as now I entertain discourse of it, to set off glorious war in the full lustre, this siege grows tedious, I wish,  
We either might assault, or else assailed be,  
Nothing's so much irksome as uncertainty.  Gui. 
Think Madam then, what torment they endure,  
That needs must die, yet of that time unsure,  
And if your pain, rise from uncertainetie,  
Then pitty such, if but from sympathy.  Exit. Enter Oswald, Aldred, a captain. Os. 
This confidence the queen expresses in Arviragus, makes evident she dotes in love, how ever she pretends onely a respect due unto his worth, there is no question she will mary him, and we shall all become his slaves.  Ald. 
My Lord this language ill becomes your duty, ●or is it wisdom in you, 'tis not the nearness of your blood that could excuse you from the queens anger, and justly should the greatest punishment fall on you, that are ungrateful for the blessings we receive by Arviragus government.  Cap. 
Most certain, we are all most happy in our general  Os. 
You are all most happy in the gift of flattery, and ignorance, I could almost wish what I fear, that we might be betrayed, to have you punished, for my part I believe that Arviragus and Sinatus, the Kings ambassadors, are in their secred counsel, setting down the ruin of the Danes, which is as easily wrought, as to reconcile the Picts and Saxons, a wondrous work indeed, since all of one Ile and faith.  All. 
O my Lord, your fears are vain, ther's neither will nor power.  Os. 
The will is apparent, by the secret conference, although the queen herself refused to hear the ambassador, yet why were we her counsel nor admitted, but all negotiated in private, as if the Danes, were not concernable, because a Pict is general.  All. 
But if that Pict be in his virtue, judgement without his equal, and have engaged his honour for our safety, what should we fear, but lay those by, yet there are other ties to bind him fast, a kingdom, and a queen, the very hope but of possessing whom, is more then to be a Monarch of the earth besides.  O●. 
Oh.  All. 
This pinches my Lord, whose vanity doth make him hope one day to get the queen and kingdom for himself, that hope thus crost, begets these murmurings against the Queen and Arviragus.  Cap. 
Most certainly it doth.  Enter Arviragus and Sinatus. Ar. 
When I have made these propositions known unto the queen, an answer shall be sent unto the King, in the mean time no hostile act must pass on either side, on forfeit of our honours.  Sin. 
'tis our agreement, which shall be observed.  Exeunt Sinatus▪ Ar. 
How narrow is the path I am to tread, I have engaged that faith now to Sinatus, that to Cartandes was engaged before— and I must injure neither, nor shall it need, yet make myself most happy.  Enter Cleanthes. 
Now Cleanthes.  Cle. 
Sir there is a Pictish youth, that hath been most importunate to speak with you.  Ar. 
What is he?  Cle. 
He seems by many particulars which he tells, to have been long acquainted with me, yet I confess I cannot call him to memory, but sure henceforeward, I shall not forget him, he is every way so singular: will you hear what he would say? and I dare almost promise, what so ere it be, you shall be pleased with him, if not with it.  Ar. 
Bring in this rarity.  Cle. 
I shall sir.  Enter Philicia. Ar. 
A lovely youth indeed, yet but one eye, nature it seems, fearing she had bestowed too much perfection upon one, to pacify her injured children, darkened the splendour of the work, or rather fortune envying the glory nature should receive, opposed her strength, to lessen this so excellent a piece.— I am informed ye are a Pict, and that you have desired to speak with me.  Phi. 
'tis truth, with this addition, that our confer nce may be private, since what I have to say, may happily concern your life.  Ar. 
My life, 'tis indeed a weighty business, and me thinks, should not come within your managing.  Phi. 
The greatest sometimes may have use even of the meanest herb or simplo that doth grow, to heal a wound, or by its mixture, cure some malady, why then should you believe one of the sons of men, for whom the best, and all the creatures had their beings, should not be capable to do you such a service, as might merit your attention, and onely yours.  Ar. 
Sure I have heard this voice before— yes gentle youth, though thou brought'st danger, as thy promises speaks safety, I would give thee hearing, were i● the business of a day, thou hast to speak, leave me Cleanthes— Now speak—  Exit Cleanthes. Phi. 
First, you must be so much a friend unto yourself, to think me such, and from that conference discover the message, that Sinatus brought you from the King, your answer back to him, nay more your present resolution in that point.  Ar. 
But can you think I will do this upon your bare profession?  Phi. 
You must do more, or else I cannot serve you.  Ar. 
More cannot be.  Phi. 
Yes, I would know touching Cartandes love and yours, and after marriage, where you mean to make abode, in britain, which will soon be conquered, or else return with her to denmark.—  Ar. 
Thou dost amaze me with this folly Cleanthes.  Phi. 
Stay— hear me out, and if what now appears like folly, proves not reason, then let me feel your anger.  Ar. 
Be brief then, I must leave you else  Phi. 
So, weary of my company, Aside.  
Even through this cloud, if he ●ere not inconstant, the sympathy of love will show his force.— Weeps.  Ar. 
Why does he weep, what means this sorrow? if it grows from me, your strange demands are onely guilty: or can I lay my heart open to one I saw before.  Phi. 
Ye may, when ye do know the pawn I will engage for service.  Ar. 
What pawn?  Phi. 
My life, when you have laid open your mind to me, and what I then shall speak you not approve, or fear I shall discover, ripp up my heart, and see the truth of my intent: or if such cruelty you like not, keep me where I shall never see mankind, but your mistrustful self.  Ar. 
This were a way indeed to be secured.  Phi. 
If so, for your own safety be persuaded, can you believe I should do this, without some grounds of reason?  Ar. 
Thou hast ore come, and I will lay my heart open, but be assured, if I do find thee trivial, I shall inflict the punishment thou do●st propose.  Phi. 
Else you shall do an injury to me.  Ar. 
Stay there—  Fetches in a head. 
See here Adrastus head, who often did attempt to murder me, now sent by the King as witness of his love, and reconcilement withall, I by Sinatus am invited to leave Cartandes, and joining with Guimantes, and the other Princes of the Ile, chase hence the Danes, and for a recompense of this, which i● itself admits of a dispute, he superads a happiness, which but to think upon, makes my glad soul enjoy a heavenly bliss.  Phi. 
And mine— speak but the ground of all joy, and I am satisfied.  Ar. 
'tis to be more then Monarch of the earth, by possessing my Philicia.  Ph. 
You Gods let me no longer live, if I must change this ioy to feel the pain of jealousy again— Sounds.  Ar. 
What flood of passion's this, I see he's no counterfeit, Cleanthus, hoe Cleanthus.  Enter Cleanthus. 
He recovers, speak gentle youth, how dost thou?  Phi. 
Well— so well, I scarcely can be better— O my dear Love, dost thou not know me?  Ar. 
Ha dear Love! joy& amazement strive within me, again name but that word of love, and let me loose to such a joy, as must know a bounds— 'tis she, O my Philicia! could a disguise like this, hid thee from me, pardon, O pardon such a dulness.  Silent actions of passions, kiss her hand. ●h. 
Cleanthus sees, and shane confounds me now as much as joy, O let me hid myself, the habit I have on, I fear will make me blushy to death.  Ar, 
You need not fear his eyes, whose heart is ●ine.  Phi. 
That you yourself should see me in the habit of a man, would much displease, did I not glory in the cause, that made me put it on, to die with you or work your safety, which safety now is threatened more then ever, you must not yield unto the Kings desires, he's false, and seeks your ruin too plainly, witness since he offers me as your reward, yet knew I was not in his power ro give; fear of his false-hood made me press to speak with you, although I thought to find you most unconstant, pardon that jealousy, whole working hath conduced much to your happiness and mine; but I am frighted still to look upon this habit, yet known to be Philicia.  Arv. 
O Dearest Lady, where can there be a way left in the power of fortune for me to quir these obligations▪  Phi. 
How will do these professions svit our loves?  
Where faith is once engaged all acts are due,  
If either think they can oblige, they are not true.   

ACT. IIII.  Enter Cartandes. Car. 
Ile tear this Arviragus from my heart, assist me reason in so just a cause, canst thou be wanting? thou flatterest too; persuaded me: love  told me that virtue was in him most eminent, and such an eminence onely becomes Cartandes to affect: but, tell me now, does it become Cartandes to continue love to one ingrate, for such a love as ●ath no parallel; a fire ●id my in bosom for so many months, almost till my consumption, and when it was permitted to break forth, O misety! to think all the return it brought was could neglect, and scorn, and can I suffer this from any mortal: Cartandes woe, and be neglected! if love bar me revenge on him, yet from myself I merit hate, and by self punishment will take revenge, but how? resolve myself never to see him more; bid farewell to this Ile and him, it must be so, or I shall fall beneath the honor of my birth.  Enter Guiderius. Guid. 
Pardon dearest Lady this intrusion, on your retyrement, I knew not of your being here.  Car. 
Stay, Ile give some intermission to my tormenting thoughts, nor do I ever find it more, then when I do converse with him, where's Prince Arviragus?  Guid. 
Giving order touching provision for the Army.  Car. 
He does not think us worthy of his company, though we commend that care, we would not be ourselves neglected.  Guid. 
'tis an accent of duty makes him absent.  Car. 
We do believe you pay us a respect greater then his, and yet we oft enjoy your company.  Guid. 
His charge engages him, and me the blessing I enjoy, to see& hear a person of such excellence.  Car. 
My exellence rests onely in your opinion, and never reaches to his apprehension: oh I must ease my heart, and when can I d●scharge the burden better, then upon one, whom I believe will have a sense of my afflictions, and faith and secrecy not to discover?  Guid. 
Though when I know you are unhappy, it will be an addition to my griefs, yet shall no overflowing of my tongue relate what I am trusted with; for I will place your sufferings in the profoundest of my heart, my own shall flo●e above, yet I should hate myself, if mine were visible to any, but the dear cause of my afflictions; how most injurious I am to myself, to give title to the pleasing pains of love.  Car. 
Mine are not such, yet love's the cause ther's a mixture of disdain and anger, that renders, even myself and him, if possible offensive hateful, O that it were so, I speak I know not what, nor is it strange in such confusion of my thoughts; that contradictions from my tongue should fall, O Arviragus, the happy, most unhappy cause of my distractions, didst thou now stand before me, as when appointed for the Sacrifice, the sense of thy ingratitude would raise my anger up to thy destruction, but soon I should revenge such rashness on myself, by my own death. O cruel love, O cruel fate, to fix my love where virtue bars me a return!  Guid. 
O cruel fate, that fixes mine, where an access of meri● forces love, and kills, even possibility of hope.  Car. 
Had I myself no need of pitty, I could g●ant it to another.  Guid. 
Is it possible the sense of pain should make you cruel, rather by an act free yourself, raising some other to a happiness no mortal ever knew so great? reason assures nature, never intended such perfections should beg love as an alms; yet when you shall descend so low to crave his heart, he cannot give you one worth the receiving, since he shall show ingratitude to so much truth, as the whole world does not again possess.  Car. 
Can her deserts to him, be more then mine? consider well my actions.  Guid. 
I cannot say that her perfections equal yours, yet they admit of no comparisons besides, but were it so, to both his obligation equal, her debt in justice must first be satisfied, which no less can perform then his whole faith: faire Creditor, be favourable then to him, to me his friend, who stand engaged for all he owes, and though I dare not say my heart is a treasure worthy to discharge the principal, yet as interest money, or a surety, till fortuen make him able, take the engagement of a faith, that cannot know a shorter date, then my last gasp.  Car. 
Guiderius, I was not ignorant before, who was the object of your passion, and bring myself in love, loves language not displeased me, but now after this declaration to my face: neither my quality, nor love to Arviragus do permit me hear you more; this I thus plainly tell you, least you should raise a hope both prejudicial to yourself and me, no flattery being so dangerous as that of lovers to themselves.  Enter Arviragus. Ar. 
I come to wai●e upon your majesty for an affair of no small consequence.  Car. 
Yet I am confident youle leave unspok●n one of greater, O Arviragus is this my resolution: first break my heart, ere I again express the least of passion, Whats your affair?  Ar. 
Your counsel wait, without whom I desire to be a witness of my proposition.  Car. 
The council, another time Ile hear● it.  Ar. 
It doth not well admit of a delay.  Car. 
It shall bee Sir, if it be in me to cause it.  Ar. 
What moves the queen?  Car. 
That was too much the other way, oh Love, how hard it is to hid thy power, when even by shows of Anger or neglect, wee to the experienced do proclaim thee most.  Ar. 
Know ye the cause the queen is thus.  Gui. 
Yes though ye did not tell me, 'tis that shee loves you who cannot requited her?  Ar. 
Oh think not so.  Guid. 
Ha— shall I believe you love her?  Ar. 
By all the Gods equal unto myself: what ist I would not undertake to serve her?  Guid. 
Not break your faith I hope.  Ar. 
My Faith— I mean within the bounds of virtue, for never man was more obliged, then I to this brave queen, Pardon divine Philicia, thou art still excepted, when either Love or Obligation is name.  Gui. 
I must confess I would not have you love the queen, for if you did, ●hen I must hate you, yet certainly Cartandes hath done more to oblige you, then Fortune ever gave▪ Philicia power.  Ar. 
No Guiderius, come with me to my tent,  
There will I make thee know,  
That I to her more then the Gods do owe.  Ex. Enter King and Sinatus. King. 
I wonder much Sinatus wee hear not from Prince Arviragus, you say he willingly did entertain the offer of our love.  Sin. 
At first he heard unwillingly my offers of a peace, but when I seconded my propositions with tender of Philicia for his wife, and did engage my faith, I judged your kindness real to my opinion, he seemed absolutely won, promised to sand some trusty Messenger, that fully should concl●de the treaty, but Sir what is the reason none are permitted to see your Sister.  K. 
Alas Sinatus, she is not to be seen by us.  Sin. 
How Si●?  K. 
Shee's fled.  Sin. 
Ha.  K. 
Sinatus here I call the Heavens to witness, I was deceived as well as others, believed she kept her chamber, when she was gone.  Sin. 
O Sir, you have undone yourself, and me, if you intended really to g●ve your Sister, yet 'tis impossible that Arviragus can believe it, now your Sister will persuade the contrary, who certainly in some disguise is fled to him, and justly am I thought the treacherous instrument of this deceit.  K. 
Sinatus be not grieved 'tis the intention makes the person guilty, and mine I swear were then, and yet remain full of all good to Arviragus.  Sin. 
But that you are my King, I would s●arce credit this profession, think now Sir what you are to do, to appear worthy Arviragus friendship, without which, there is no preservation for your self  or State.  King. 
We hope we are not in a cause so desperate, Eugenius no ways is of your opinion.  Sin. 
'tis well sir, if Eugenius heart be yours, after so many injuries, I would not sir accuse, though I mistrust, he's one of a high mind, withall suspicious, and from his own thoughts, judges your actions: this sir, were base in me, but that it tends to my Princes preservation: take heed your love unto Artemia, give not her father power to work his ends upon you, I know he once did hate you deadly.  King. 
So did Artem●a, but now she is more g●ntle, and if I not mistake, shares in my flamme, what can Eugenius aim at more then to be father in Law unto his Prince: see where they come.—  Enter Eugenius 
and Artemia.  
Divine Artemia, thou bright star of comfort, which but appearing with a cheerful look, dost by that influence, chase from me in an instant all my discontent: shine but thus gracious ever, and fortune hath no power to make me suffer.  Ar. 
May Fortune cease to be adored, when she's not auspicious to your Wishes.  King. 
My Lord I must aclowledge these favours to your kindness, whilst she speaks thus, make known your wishes, and they are obeied.  Eug. 
Mine Sir, must first tend to your happiness, before they are permitted to reflect upon myself, and the first step to that Sir, is your safety here Sir, are ye besieged? yet all men live in so much plenty, eat and drink, as if their store could near be spent, hoping upon uncertain succours or Treaties, of some peace, which all may fail, and we be left to the extremity of famine: this to prevent, such order would in time be taken, as is accustomend in a City thus besieged.  King. 
The care is timely, and in the due execution we desire you will oblige us, from henceforth we command Eugenius as our substitute, receive from all perfect obedience touching the Government and safety of the City.  Art. 
This confidence which you do repose in him, obliges me no less, to pray for the success, then him to put in act his ablest faculties, for the performance of a charge weighty.  Offers to kneel. Eug. 
Sir.  King. 
Eugenius, Here wee do receive all thankes, present and expect future happiness.—  Exit King, 
Artemia, and others, man●l Eugenius.  Eug. 
Yes Prince, I know thy present joys fix there, and would remain so, till thy lust were satisfied, but I shall cool that heat, nor will my actions scarcely bear the name of falsehood, but in the ocean of thy fathers, and thy treache●y, and wrongs to me be lost, or if remembered, called a wise p●evention, at worst a just revenge, upon a perjured and dissembling Tyrant.  Enter the two that mocked him in his disgrace. 1. 
Most noble Lord, how excellent and wise a choice his majesty hath made in our belief, our vowed obedience to your least command, we hope shall witness.  Eug. 
You are more cruel in these flatteries, now in my prosperity, then were your scorn in time of my affliction: then I could have revenged, but now civility must tie my hands.  2. 
O My Lord, I hope your goodness will believe we did but jest, and wished no hurt?  Eug. 
No● do I think you now wish good, and as such harmless persons wi●h your pardon, I shall sti●l esteem.  1. 
Now by our honours we are yours entirely, or any that the King pleases to favour.  2. 
Sir, we have been long Courtiers, and never were observed as stubborn to the will of majesty, his wisdom, makes election, and duty doth from us command obedience.  Eug. 
But not slavish professions, learn to be men, and I will love you, nay learn but to dissemble well and Ile employ you, appear but to the world honest and worthy, Ile embrace your friendship, be capable to cousin, and you may be useful, but shallow fools and knaves, that every child can see, throw disgrace on the weary Courtier.  Enter Arviragus and Cleanthus. Ar. 
Welcome still night that doth invite unto a sweet repose, wearied mortality but unto me more welcome then the rest, a thou givest way to my enjoying a happiness, worthy the envy of the Gods, Cl●anthes make all things ready, and bee careful none approach.  Clean. 
I shall.  Exit Clean. Enter Philicia. Ar. 
Come fo●th my dearest, Ci●thia is to her highest Orb advanced, 'tis mid of night, in tears these clouds are surely caused from gratitude to her, least the bright splendour of your eyes, should dark her shine, there cannot be a real cause of sorrow here.  Phi. 
O Yes, the very being here is in itself a Cause.  Ar. 
Can ye repent your goodness to me?  Phi. 
No Arviragus, but I may quarrel with my Fate, that forces me to give so faire a ground to slander, do I appear now like a great Kings daughter, or when our story shall be red, will not some question my virtue justly, but were there none of these, how much less will your satisfaction bee, when You receive me at your Altar, then if your purchase of me had been with doubts and fears continued, besides the frailty of mans nature must make him of necessity rejoice more to receive a Princes with all circumstance of greatness, then one that comes into his arms, stripped of those pleasing glories.  Ar. 
Since our essential content rests in ourselves, and all actions wee have done of consequence have ever a●m'd at one anothers goods, you could not suffer for my sake, or I for yours, but it must add to our affection, if to the world you show less glory, as clouded by our Sexes habit, it sets a value upon me, for whose sake you obscured yourself, not Alexander I confess by all his conquests was ever raised to such a hight, for with contempt I look on what the wo●ld st●les most happy, yet all these glories vanish or change into their contrary, unless you change the day, and with a clearer beam dry up this killing moisture, no Cerren ever felt so dangerous infections, even to the ruin of our joys, since it doth show, as if there we●e suspicion or defect of love in one of us.  Ph. 
O kill me not to say so.  Ar. 
Why are ye sad, We do enjoy our conversation free, no eye or ear is to disturb us, a blessing lovers pray for, oft have we done so.  Ph. 
'tis true, and for your conversation, should again adventure much, but here I am as twere by a constraint, something of modesty or folly, I know not what to call it▪ since certain of your virtue, takes from me al the satisfaction of your company, truth is, I slept not al the last night, nor do I think I shal, if you lie in the same room.  Ar. 
( But there's necessity of that to avoid suspicion, would you be pleased to plight our Faiths, these scruples then would vanish▪ and we might be more freely happy.  Phi. 
Kill me rather then utter any syllable to such a purpose.  Ar. 
Upon my knees I beg forgiveness.  Phi. 
I scarce can grant it, nor will I, but upon a condition.  Ar. 
Name it, and be obeied.  Phi. 
That you lie further from the bed, as far as possible.  Ar. 
What can you fear from me?  Phi. 
It seems ye are no suitor for a pardon, that dare expostulate.  Ar. 
By this faire hand I will obey you.  Phi. 
In this you onely seal a blank, your pardon is not drawn up in my heart, nor can be, till I be obeied, pray remove yourself.  Ar. 
O cruel Philicia!  Phi. 
dear Arviragus, do not think me such, 'tis not want, but an excess of love, that makes me tender to preserve myself, most worthy of you, nor am I very well, caused by my want of sleep, the enjoying which, onely can restore me, may thy repose be full of all these comforts happy Lovers feel, and if a doubt possess thy mind, may the divinity of love, give thee assurance by a perfect vision of my heart, then thou shalt find unto thy joy and mine, that never any was so truly loved.  Ar. 
If then you would not contradict this your profession, you will grant this privilege, one kiss of your faire hand, whose delicacy is such, it both commands and yet forbids obedience, put me not from you, it seems like banishment, I will retire unurg'd, one touch more I would beg, be not displeased, consider but how you may bless me, and sure you will not frown although I aim at this.  Phi. 
Your importunity and my desire to sleep, onely procures your wish, with which be satisfied.  Ar. 
I am, though not my love, that merits more, sleep steals upon her, and though she cannot be a witness now o my obedience, I will retire, even to the utmost verge, nor can I be displeased in this removal, when I know that I am lodged in the ●refoundest of her heart, from which assurance and imitation of my better part, a gentle slumber, do begin to gain a mastery upon my senses, welcome, thrice welcome, thou sweet refresher of our wearied faculties, how gladly do I yield unto thy charms?  Enter Cartandes, Oswald, Lords, Aldred. Car. 
Not love alone, nor that so much as jealousy and curiosity, thrusts me upon this action, which some will censure sharply, who can this be, with whom he thus retire, and shuts himself up, even from his dearest friend Guiderius, no way can I arrive at satisfaction, better then by this unexpected and unreasonable visit: all stay without but Aldred.  Cle. 
Who's there?  Car. 
A friend to Arviragus.  Cle. 
Ha the queen.  Car. 
do not wake your master, rather retire, I am confident, that you dare trust me in this chamber.  Cle. 
Madam.  Car. 
I see you're trouble, stay, and be witness, I will not ravish him.  Cle. 
What can this mean, or what's my part, advice me heaven.  Car. 
This is the Prince laid on the floor, what can this mean, does he believe those limbs deserve no better place? although in war he hath been b●ed, yet a Commander still, and needed enure himself to so much hardness, ther's more in it sure, here, here's the cause; rather an argument to draw him nearer, for so much sweetness in a face, these eyes never beholded, Nature, where hast thou hide this piece, whose excellence is such, that my amazement questions my faith with doubts, whither it be some new creation, not can I be resolved.  Phi. 
Oh.  Car. 
That sigh settles my doubt on the old stuff, sorrows are our birth right, but of what S●x is yet my torment, if a Woman, if— it be so, for could he give his bed to a man, or could a man deserving that respect, be so far wanting in Civility, as to accept it? No 'tis a woman,& she for whom I 'm justly neglected, Why Justly? is she a queen, or are her sufferings for Arviragus equal to mine? in both she may exceed, for such respect he pays her, as might content a Deity, if they had being on the earth.  Phi. 
O my dear Arviragus.  Car. 
More then enough, despair I entertain from this minute, it is a Woman, were it a man, the mischief were not less, now I may hate, then I perhaps might love again— Sir.— Sir  Ar. 
My dear Philicia.  Car. 
How bitter those sweet words are, no Sir.  Ar. 
I do nor dream, sure I am yet a sleep, most gracious Lady, to see you here at this dead time of night may well excuse this my distraction, there is no commotion in the camp, or secret treason.  Car. 
The greatest that mans wit or fortune can produce, my utter ruin, and you the ground of all, nay you concealed that person from me, that hath already strooke me to the heart.  Ar. 
I cannot understand you.  Car. 
This light Ile give you to it.  Ar. 
What shall I do— this youth Ile answer for.  Car. 
And so shall he for you, your guilt being equal, a guard there seize this Prince.  Ar. 
H●, seize me.  Phi. 
Ah me who's here?  Car. 
Prince Arviragus, seek not to make resistance, 'tis impossible without shedd●ng the blood of thousands: by what is most sacred I vow, the innocent shal have no prejudice; if in this promise I do fail, let a swift vengeance seize me, but if you will not trust this promise, but bee your own acquitter, and this youths, who is by me accused of Treason, upon your head fall all the blood that shall this night be  shed.  Phi. 
Although I do not know the grounds of your suspit on and s● am ignorant how far your passions may transport you against me and this Prince, yet since I know our innocence, and what his obligations have formerly bi● to you, from that end, your own nobleness, I needs must hope a fai●er issue, than from a desperate opposition.  Ar. 
Is't your opin on then that I should yield myself?  Phi. 
your former bondage may instruct it a happin●sse to be a Prisoner to Cartandes, if free from guilt, that confidence will make me suffer gladly with you.  Car. 
In this I must deceive your hopes, although you joined together in my wrongs, your persons must be ●evered.  Ar. 
This was my fear, invention help me, Noble Agenor, bee not discontented, although our persons may be separated, our friendship shall remain entire for ever.  Car. 
How's this?  Ar. 
Sure Philicia will conceive me. Madam bee pleased to know you have the Pri●ce of Scotland for your prisoner, whose Father if he suffer injury, hath power to right himself.  Phi. 
I cannot fear it from so sweet a Lady, and yet her eyes without her tongue, have power of life and death.  Car. 
What am I courted? for this time sir I will onely employ my tongue. Let them be separat, yet used with all respect:  
For in what I fear you clear yourselves from guilt,  
Rather then yours my own blood shall be spilled.   

ACT. V.  Enter Artemia. Art. 
How strangely are my thoughts divided, how full of contradictions? O the unsufferable pains of an unsettled mind! thou art above expression, beyond the reach of faith in all, but such as have like me, been tortured by thee; to love by inclination, yet bound to hate by reason, to have oaths, vows and tears, beget faith, and as it were, destroy it, in the instant of its birth, by a suspicion of his falsehood: Oh, cruel, cruel fate! either work powerfully suspicion in my soul, or wholly quit the place to faith begetting love.  Enter Eugenius. Eug. 
How now Artemia, thou look'st sad, but know thou hast no cause, the plot I laid hath taken to my wish, and when we please, we may be free leaving this cursed place.  Art. 
May we sir?  Eug. 
Thou speakest not cheerfully: know that the captain which I  told thee of, to whom I did commit the keeping of the Westerne-gate of the City, is so much mine, that he not only will assist our flight, but give us trusty servants to be our guides: I long till I embrace brave Arviragus feet, and bath them in repentant tears: why stand'st thou thus, art thou not joyed, to think upon thy meeting with Guiderius?  Art. 
I should be glad to see my brother, but sit, will not our flight appear like treason, the King reposing on your faith his safety?  Eug. 
Treason? Artemia, it scarcely could be counted such if I should kill him ere I left the City, his fathers injuries, and his to me, have been insupportable.  Art. 
But sir, if he now really intend all he makes show of, would not that justly reconcile him to your love?  Eug. 
do you desire to stay behind to be his whore? remember what he once attempted fool.  Art. 
'tis true, but he's much changed, me thinks full of all sweetness now of late, O sir.  Eug. 
I see his flatteries have gained upon thee, and thou believest him changed, when thou indeed art so Artemia, no, thou must not trust him, build on a fathers care,& judgement, whose experience makes him more capable, to know the cunning of a Crocodile, whose practise is to ruin us by our own pitty, let us remove ourselves with speed Artemia, out of the sight, or hearing of his charm.  Ar. 
I shall obey sir, when you please▪  Eug. 
Prepare yourself then, for perhaps this night we wil● leave the City.  Exit Eugenius. Art. 
Must I forget all those deep oaths, all those expressions, which I have heard the experienced, rekon up as marks of love, why should I think ther's no faith in men, are they not made of the same mould, with us, and sure I have not less of love for him then I make show of, O would I had, I love him but too much, which blinds me that I cannot see his falsehood,— cannot? rather will not,  
Love what it doth not like doth darkly see,  
But what doth please, even against truth must be.  Exit. Enter Philicia. Phi. 
Though my own miseries press hard upon me, yet even those griefs beget a sense, and pity of her sufferings that causes mine Cartandes, nor is it strange, when I consider Arviragus, the ground of both— the queen.  Enter Cartandes and Aldred Car. 
See these things be ready, and wait without.  Phi. 
I must make good the person of Agenor.  Exit Al. Car. 
Sir, I come to see how you do bear restraint.  Phi. 
Madam, my usage hath been such, so noble, my will so framed to serve your pleasure, that I before felt no restraint, but sure a prison, by your glorious presence, will soon become the onely place worthy our wish, a Temple where on the Altar of a zealous heart, there may be offered up to you the sacred Deity, the Incense of our pure devotion.  Car. 
Agenor Prince of Scotland might speak this, and think so too, for I confess I not misdoubt my merit, but from Philicia, whose soul I know is full of malice against Cartandes, this must not be believed without the forfeit of my judgement— and know your hate is that I covet, not your love.  Phi 
My hate, faire princess? ●rust me I cannot pay it.  Car. 
Leave these disguisings, I come upon no friendly visit, look on me as a rival enraged with jealousy for such my actions quickly will express me.  Exit Car. Phi. 
'tis in vain, I find she knows me for Philicia, and Mistris to the man she loves.  Enter Cartandes with a Cup and a Dagger. Car. 
judge now if I deserve your courting, does my presence make this place pleasing to you, dost thou not tremble at these objects?  Phi. 
Those objects, nor the employment of them shall not make me guilty, and whilst they do not so, they can create no fear.  Car. 
I trifle, this cup of poison, Arviragus does present you by my hand, and bids you, if you love him, drink it to his health, what do ye begin to tremble?  Phi. 
I do, to hear his name and poison mixed together in one sentence, but for myself, a confident smile, shall meet, and if not check, yet triumph over your utmost malice.  Car. 
Proceed to make this good, ther's matter for the trial.  Phi. 
How? to drink that poison, ther's no just invitation to it.  Car. 
You will not drink this poison then, for Arviragus sake.  Phi. 
Even for his sake I must not.  Car. 
Thou God of Love be judge, and crown the truest Lover in elysium— thus do I seize my right.  Phi. 
What means the Queen?  Car. 
Force could not make thee do, what force shall not prevent me from this draft gives freedom, and all joys to my dear Arviragus, nay makes even thee my hated rival sharer in his bliss.  Phi 
H●ld.— Car. No.  Phi. 
O hold for Arviragus sake— shall I be thus outgone? this cursed draft to hell, how I am lost in admiration, at this love and bravery, here let me kneel in adoration, as to a Deity, for sure your beauty, and these exalted actions speak you more then a mortal.  Car. 
More then a fool, had I intended really, what I made show of.  Phi. 
How is this?  Car. 
Drink poison for a man that scorns me— no● his heart-blood were a more pleasing draft.  Phi. 
I am amazed, which way shall I direct my faith, where fix it?  Car. 
Vpon this point, which is unalterable, know that as much as I have loved Prince Arviragus, so much, nay more, hath Oswald been in love with me,( at last his service hath obtained what I could not from Arviragus,) belief and pitty of his sufferings, but whilst the madness of my passion lasted to your servant, I made a vow never to mary any man, but Arviragus, yet he alive, Oswald that knows this, doth press a combat, which I as gladly grant, prompted by love to him, and present hate to Arviragus, who yet if he proves victor, gains liberty for ●ou and him, to this my oath and honour both shall ●ind me.  Phi. 
Can this be true?  Car. 
I make no doubt of his and your acceptance, the offer being so far above your hopes, armor shall be provided, the place I likewise have designed, no witness but ourselves,  
This being performed, justice will force you say,  
A rival to your joys showed you a way.  Phi. 
I must confess you brave, perform but what you boast,  
And I shall onely grieve your Oswald lost.  Exit. Enter Sinatus and a Lord. Lo. 
My Lord, as to an Oracle I come for counsel to you, my mind is burdened with a secret of no final importance.  Sin. 
Be free in speaking it▪ I shall be so to you in my advice.  Lo. 
First swear a secrecy.  Sin. 
You are not just sir, to desire an oath, I covet not the knowledge of your secret, if you believe me honest, that's a tie sufficient.  Lo. 
You righrly do instruct me from that assurance I must discover to you, that won by Eugenius, I have consented to his escape with his daughter, out at that which he committed to my custody, but considering better I find it is not onely his escape that he may aim at, but happily the ruin of the King and City, whose weakness he may discover to the Danes and Arviragus.  Sin. 
No doubt he does intend it, and these your latter thoughts had only power to wash away, aided by the Kings mercy, the guilt that stained you by your rash consent.  Lo. 
But if this be discovered, I prove the murderer of Eugenius, and his sweet and innocent daughter.  Sin. 
I shall advice you, as I have ever done myself, particular losses, must yield unto the general preservation; and yet alas, is there no safety for the State but in their deaths? must that be recompense for all their former injuries? what is your will? the King must know this from you or me.  Lo. 
Sir, you are wise and virtuous, this my affair I wholly commit unto your hands, for there I count my life or honour safe, if one must perish, it will be some comfort, that I lose it by your counsel.  Exit. Sin. 
Althou●h unwillingly, yet as a counsellor, I am bound to undertake it, 'tis hard to rule what is above us, the King I fear dissembles, and thinks by unjust policies, to bring his ends to pass.  Enter King. King. 
Know now Sinatus consulting with yourself.  Sin. 
Yes, but about your safety.  Gni. 
How am I in danger?  Sin. 
Be pleased sir, first to tell me, if rash and unfaithful resolutions may not find mercy, from repentance, and endeavours of amends?  Gui. 
They are crimes I have been guilty of, and if like me, they truly can repent, I can forgive, as certain, as I hope forgiveness.  Sin. 
I must believe you know then, I am informed Eugenius and Artemia, giving no faith to all your shows of love, did work a means for their escape to Arv●ragus; the captain that made promise of his help, is he that now discovers their intent.  Gui. 
Thou wounds my soul with this, yet but from thee it could not find belief, have all my vows and tears, gained no more faith? suspected still,— sand strait to fetch that captain to me, and in what I shall now enjoin thee, thou best of men, crown all thy former actions.  Sin. 
Let it be virtuous, and I shall know, nor doubt nor danger.  Gui. 
I durst as soon pray heavens assistance, as thine to any unjust act, 'tis such a secret, as I scarce dare trust the air with it.  Whispers. Sin. 
How sir, 'twere madness.  Gui. 
Feltst thou my torment, thou wouldst account it madness not to do it▪  Sin. 
O sir, ther's too much danger.  Gui. 
The more of love and honor then, He that like me, justly under the heavy burden of suspicion lies,  
By actions, even above belief must seek to rise.  Exit. Enter Guiderius. Guid. 
Hither I am come to meet an unknown foe, by the command of her who hath so absolute a power over my soul, that certain death were by the merit of obedience, made a gainful purchase, and far from me be such a thought as death, were not my arms as strong, my heart as void of fear, as any living, yet such a recompense will crown my victory, that would give strength and courage, to the basest coward; my wish 'twas, that Cartandes vowed to make me master of, if in her power, and in her power, rests my chiefest bliss on earth, I am on fire till I behold an opposite, but whom? I must not question that, not in my thoughts, much less expostulate with him our cause of combat, were he here.  Enter Arviragus. Ar. 
Were it a troupe of men, as 'tis a single person that I am to meet, I should encounter them with no less hope and courage then now, since 'tis to set Philicia free: Cartandes, prove but faithful in thy promise, and though thy hatred make thee seek my life, I shall admire thine, and thy servants bravery,— here's Oswald.  Enter Guiderius armed. Guid. 
I feared all was a dream, but see my wish.  fight. Enter Cartandes and Philicia. Car. 
Enough Guiderius, hold, O hold Guiderius.  Phi. 
Ha, Guiderius.  Ar. 
How's this?  Guid. 
Why Madam, do ye this?  Ar. 
Do I here right? thy voice speaks thee Guiderius, art thou he?  Guid. 
Ha, if you be Arviragus, I shall soon be nothing, O falsehood, never till this minute hadst thou so glorious a seat, dear Lady take this sword and ripp my heart, to see my innocence.  Phi. 
I should as soon suspect my faith, as doubt thy love to Arviragus.  Ar. 
O Madam, could ye not be content to satisfy your cruelty a common way, but you would make us murtherers of our own selves?  Car. 
Prince Arviragus, I had really intended your destruction, perhaps you had not lived now to upbrayd me, your strengths& courages seeming equal, nor you Guiderius in your looks, to express a soul so discontented: I did not think friendship had wholly taken up your heart; call all that's near, nay, could the universal world hear my voice, I would with a just pride, proclaim the ground of all my actions— know madam, in that Scene of death with you, I made such trial of your virtue, and your love to Arviragus, that in the ocean of your merits, my sickly hopes were drowned, for I despaired of ever arriving at the haven of bliss, where you may now for ever anchor safely, from me no storm shall rise more to disturb your peace.  Ar. 
Can this be true Philicia, shall wee believe? will you not change again?  Car. 
Why do you check your joys? trust me I will no more vary the Scene, but gladly prove a Priest to join your hands.  Ar. 
Oh you Gods!  Phi. 
Let me adore this goodness.  Car. 
Now Arviragus, I must turn to you: to make a repetition of the torments I have felt were vain, for I must tell you, that I still do love, and must enjoy all that your virtue can permit you grant, nay, I must mary Arviragus too▪  Phi. 
How Madam?  Car. 
In this his friend I shall enjoy, his faith, virtue, valour, in this last action fully witnessed to me— Guiderius, if beyond this you have a wish, and in my power, name it, and I will see it performed.  Guid. 
Or this, or in the instant give me death.  Car. 
This doubt speaks your love more, and makes you dearer to me.  Guid. 
Let me not dare to think words can express my joys.  A noise within. Ar. 
What's the matter?  Enter Aldred. Aldr. 
Some that are fled out of the City desire to be admitted to your presence.  Car. 
Bring them in▪  Enter Eugenius, Artemia, Guimanthes, and two more. Eug. 
First, let me here lay down my neck, and if you please, receive a Traytors due.  Ar. 
Eugenius I am both amazed and joyed to see you, and where you think you need forgiveness, I must pay you thanks, even for my life, preserved by this your son.  Guid. 
Your blessing sir.  Eug. 
Never was fathers stains wiped off with so much joy to the offendor, as mine by thee.  Phi. 
dear▪ Artemia well come, here thou art safe from false-hood and tyranny.  Art. 
Madam, I hope so.  Guid. 
But how sir did you scape the Tyrant?  Eug. 
'tis now some time since he made shows of love unto Artemia, and for his ends, used me with all respect, trusted the Government of the City to me, but I have gained the opportunity to put myself within this gracious Princes and your protection, chiefly by imitating him in his dissimulation, but in his shows of love, her's one can witness to her grief, none ever equalled his falsehood. Discovers.  Gui. 
Eugenius, thus I do disprove thy slander.  Omnes. 
Ha the King!  Gui. 
Ha, dear Artemia, no longer trust the malice of this father, since to assure my love, I hazard honor, life and kingdom, behold me here, gladly exposed, even to the utmost rage or injury can prompt you to, and if I fall a Sacrifice to Love, and thee close▪ but my eyes, and  shed a tear upon my tomb, such a death will prove by far more welcome, ther 〈◇〉 to live, and have my faith suspected.  
〈◇〉 his one act did not my interest bind, yet might for ever reconcile us.  Guid. 
I will not beg that pardon, which you so freely give.  Ar. 
And Madam, I must hope, you will believe, Hymen and Mars but ill agree.  Car. 
dear Arviragus know that power you held in both, is not grown less, because now we are joined, dispose all how you please.  Ar. 
Eugenius, are you as liberal?  Eug. 
I am ready upon my knee to beg this Princes pardon.  Gui. 
Which sir, I must not suffer, rather would kneel to beg a blessing from you.  Ar. 
Artemia, if I can red loves language, your eyes express the argument of your heart, blushy not; receive her sir.  
I do, as what can onely make me blessed.  Ar. 
Hymen provide more Torches:  
From your equal loves will rise,  
A firm belief that Cupid now hath eyes.   
FINIS.   

Epilogue.  
THus at the last, our doubtful story ends,  
With show of marriage, but our ioy depends  
On your allowance, You may yet undo  
All that is past, and we again must Wooe:  
For by disliking You forbid our bands,  
But if you're pleased, you so do join our hands.   

Imprimatur  
MATH. day. Octob. 26. 1638.